What to Do If You Catch the Swine Flu During an Extended Business Stay

Since the Swine Flu, also known as the H1N1 Virus, was first discovered in April of 2009, over a million American citizens have been diagnosed with it and over 500 have died. While it has still not caused as much damage as the regular seasonal flu, it remains a threat largely because it refuses to go away. The virus has spread to all corners of the globe, so you are not safe from it when you are on business trips abroad. Travelling for business can also increase your risk of contracting the virus because you are in close proximities to others on the plane and have plenty of opportunity to catch it.

So what happens when you are on an important business meeting and you feel sick? The first thing you need to do is go to a doctor and see what the diagnosis is. There is no need for concern until you are certain you have the swine flu. Even if it turns out you do have it there is no need for alarm. Keep in mind that it is not any worse than the regular seasonal flu, as a matter of fact the number of deaths and hospitalizations have actually been lower. It is most threatening to certain age groups. These include children under the age of 2, women who are pregnant, those with asthma, teens, and young adults.

If you are diagnosed with swine flu on a business trip, report this to your superior immediately. Although it will probably cause some difficulties, it is best if you remain away from others until you are better. Most bosses will hopefully be understanding given the importance of staying away from work when sick being reported in the media. If they give you any trouble be sure that they understand that it will not help matters any if they are anybody else on the trip catches the virus from you. Hopefully they will understand and give you some time to recuperate.

When you have the H1N1 virus, it is important to cough into your elbow or shoulder to keep the spread of germs low. If your symptoms get worse and there is constant vomiting, chest pain, or a rising fever, go to the emergency room. You can take over the counter medications such as Tylenol and aspirin which can relieve the pain and help to bring down your fever and your doctor may prescribe a medicine like Tamiflu or Relenza that can help improve your systems and aid recovery as well. Even once your fever is gone and you feel better, give yourself at least 24 hours to make sure you are truly over it.

Getting the H1N1 virus is something that nobody wants to experience, and things are only worse when you are away from home. Although getting sick can disrupt your business plans, it is much better for everyone if you stay away from work until it recovers.