<p>Twisted I asked my doctor this very same questions many, many years ago. He told me “if something still hurts or doesn’t feel right or isn’t getting better after a week come in and see me.” So I’ve always used this as a rule of thumb.</p>
<p>If you just feel a bit cruddy, then it is just a bit cruddy. Taking a turn for the worse means GET HELP. Sometimes fall brings molds and allergies to mold can cause post nasal drip through the night that means one wakes up with a sore throat. Look for black crud around the bathroom and around windows – but mold can be many places. </p>
<p>Whole body aches, a stiff neck, feeling like it’s a challenge to breathe, feeling like you’re dying, feeling nauseous, feeling headachey or like the eyes are burning – these are all a step up from a throat tickle (obviously) and means further work up is needed. I wish you would go get seen just to relieve your fears. An experienced “throat peeker” may be able to tell you on the spot if it looks like allergies or strep or something else.
Good luck.</p>
<p>I am dubious about relying on the protection of hand sanitizer. Sure, it can diminish the spread of viruses from doorknob to hand to face – but then if you go sit in a class of 300 or ride a bus of 30 . . . the airborne droplets will be there. That said, I am washing my hands much more!</p>
<p>A quick update: It’s day 3 (or 5, if you count the days of cough before the onslaught of full symptoms) and DD is feeling much better. The albuterol is making a big difference in her ability to breathe and she hasn’t had a fever for 24+ hours. She’s taking the rest of today to catch up on work at home and she’ll return to class tomorrow. I’m breathing easier too. :)</p>
<p>I’m so glad your D is recovering nicely. What a big relief for you!</p>
<p>Not at all.</p>
<p>Schmoom, so glad she’s feeling better.</p>
<p>With regard to the alcohol based hand sanitizer -vs.- soap and water debate…</p>
<p>Ira Flatow (NPR Science Friday) hosted two scientists earlier this year reporting research results on this very topic. The research was not specific for H1N1. What I remember about flu virus from the segment:
Soap and water combined with physical wiping of the hands with a towel or paper towel was better than</p>
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<p>Also from that segment: alcohol based hand sanitizer was more effective against cold viruses than flu viruses.</p>
<p>Schmoom, yes my daughter went through sorority rush along with several other girls in her dorm, unit 2. Many in the building are sick…several tested positive for H1N1. My D was never tested but she still has the congestion.</p>