Health officials consider the H1N1 (swine flu) a pandemic. That means the H1N1 virus has spread throughout the world, can make people very sick, and can spread easily from one person to another.

Most kids want to know: Should I worry or not worry about this flu? Medical experts say instead of worrying, wash your hands! Worry won't keep you from getting the flu (or any infectious disease), but good hand-washing often can keep you healthy. Keeping your hands clean — and following other good habits like not sharing drinks and keeping your fingers out of your mouth, nose and eyes — can help protect you from germs.



Symptoms of H1N1 (swine) flu include a fever plus one or more of these:

• cough
• sore throat
• runny nose
• body aches
• headaches
• tiredness

What You Can Do
You — yes, you! — can help keep people from getting sick this flu season. How? It's not too hard. Just take these steps:

• Wash your hands frequently, especially before eating and after coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose.
• Keep your sneezes and coughs to yourself (use a tissue or your elbow instead of your hand).
• Keep your hands out of your eyes, mouth, and nose.
  
• Avoid people who are sick (coughing, fever, etc.).
• Try to avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. That's how germs get in your body.
• Don't drink out of the same cup or share utensils (forks, spoons) with other people.
• Another way to be helpful is for sick people to stay home from school (if you're a kid) or work (if you're a grownup).