COVERITLIVE.COM

10:39

Philly.com - Neil Fishman, M.D. will be online at noon to answer your questions and concerns about swine flu. Post your questions now.

10:58

[Comment From Rebecca]
What symptoms distinguish swine flu from just another cold, virus or allergy?

10:59

Neil Fishman - The symptoms of swine flu are the same as regualr seasonal influenza - fever with cough, sore throat and body aches

10:59

[Comment From Gail]
How quickly is this thing spreading? How quickly do you think it can be contained?

11:02

Neil Fishman - This is a good question. Unfortuately we are still gathering information to help asnwer this question. It does appear that the virus can spread easily form person to person. But there are some very basic things we can do to prevent the spread: clean your hands, cover your cough, avoid contact with people who are sick and stay home if you have a fever

11:02

[Comment From Sally]
I have read that people in other states are buying up face masks do you recommend their use? What about if I'm a frequent rider of the city's subways.

11:05

Neil Fishman - There is no need for this at the current time. There are no confirmed cases in Philadelphia or Pennsylvania. The CDC does not recommend widespread use of masks unless there is significant infection in the community. Even then, the masks are only recommended in crowded areas, because there is not good evidence they will prevent infection. Additionally, if the public buys large quatities of masks, they will not be available for doctors' offices and hospitals. So, I do not recommend purchasing masks at this time.

11:06

[Comment From Guest]
Dr. Fishman, I am an immuno-compromised (I have Lupus and am on steroid therapy), but otherwise healthy, 35-year-old. Because of my immune system, I do my best NOT to get sick. I also have multiple drug allergies and sensitivities so when I do get sick, treatment is always very difficult. Obviously, I am terrified of this flu "outbreak" and am concerned that if I get it, it will be dangerous. Besides washing my hands a lot, what can i do to feel like I am being proactive about this?

11:07

Neil Fishman - Wahsing your hands with soap and water or an alcohol hand sanitizer is still the best and most effective intervention. You could carry hand sanitizer with you and use it frequently.

11:07

[Comment From Steve]
I don't understand why there is all the worry. How many people are there in Mexico and they only have something like 1,200 cases! Why the hysteria?

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