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Warning-sign checks

Avian influenza: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911
    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    If symptoms appear during the monitoring period, contact the designated healthcare or public health team promptly.

    Avoid close contact with other people and animals until you receive instructions.

    Do not go to work, school, or a public clinic without first explaining the exposure.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Someone recovering at home should follow the planned check-in schedule and complete antiviral treatment as directed.

    Seek medical review if symptoms are not improving, return after improving, or become worse.

    Persistent cough and tiredness can occur after influenza, but ongoing shortness of breath, recurrent fever, or chest discomfort should be assessed.

    After severe illness, follow-up may include checking breathing, oxygen needs, strength, nutrition, and the ability to return to usual activities.

    Some people may need rehabilitation after a long hospital stay.

    Routine follow-up is also a chance to review workplace protection, safe animal-handling practices, and seasonal influenza vaccination.

    Public health teams may contact household members or coworkers to assess their exposure and arrange monitoring or testing when needed.

The article also says

People who have had a recognized exposure may be asked to monitor their health for 10 days after the last exposure.

Public health officials may provide specific instructions about checking for fever, eye redness, cough, sore throat, breathing problems, or other symptoms.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Avian influenza. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.