The first wave of swine origin Influenza A (H1N1) seemed to have tapered off, but it is likely that another outbreak is on the horizon.

With summer ending and kids heading back to school and college, some universities are already reporting cases of the Swine Flu / H1N1 virus. Medical experts are warning that the second wave may be even more deadly. If the second wave occurs, the virus has the potential to spread fast like the Spanish Flu in 1918; that was also a H1N1 virus.

Right now, people from 30 countries are suffering from a relatively mild outbreak, and local Pittsburgh campuses have reported several cases already. Swine flu symptoms include runny nose, muscle aches, lethargy, lack of appetite; fever over 101 and sudden onset. It is difficult to distinguish from other flu types, and does require a diagnosis.

The CDC plans to have nearly 50 million experimental vaccines ready to go by fall, and is pushing for mandatory injections for children ages 6 months to 18. The National Vaccine Information Center has extensive information available to the public about the vaccine.

The same good health habits you practice to minimize infection with other viruses can help you avoid swine flu:

• WASH YOUR HANDS FREQUENTLY
• COVER YOUR COUGH
• STAY HOME IF YOU ARE SICK
• GET PLENTY OF SLEEP, EXERCISE, EAT HEALTHY, AND REDUCE STRESS
• EDUCATE YOURSELF ON VACCINE AND SYMPTOMS