Flu, fever, cough, ILI and H1N1
Useful information
The GrippeMontréal survey measures the occurrence of influenza-like illness in the population. "ILI" stands for influenza-like illness. It is what health professionals define as a group of symptoms or signs that we feel when we have the flu. These symptoms are quite simple to identify: fairly high fever-38o Celsius or higher-that comes on suddenly, and persistent cough.
Having an ILI does not necessarily mean having influenza A(H1N1). However, we should remember that the A(H1N1) virus is the dominant flu virus in Montréal at this time. If you develop influenza-like illness (ILI), you probably have influenza A(H1N1). That being said, cases of influenza A(H1N1) have to be confirmed scientifically and this cannot be done through an Internet survey.
The Ministère de la Santé et des Services sociaux du Québec recommends that you:
- wash your hands frequently;
- cough and sneeze into your elbow or a disposable tissue;
- avoid touching your nose, eyes and mouth, which is where the virus enters the body;
- avoid contact with people who have the flu;
- disinfect surfaces that are often used (for example, counters, tables and doorknobs);
- get vaccinated.
- If you have ILI, stay at home and rest. This way you can recover and avoid contaminating other people;
- Drink plenty of water;
- Consult the Self-care guide provided by the Ministère de la santé et des services sociaux: in it you'll find the official recommendations to take care of your health during the influenza A (H1N1) pandemic;
- If you have concerns or complications, call Info-Santé at 8-1-1;
- See a health professional as soon as possible if you are in one of the following risk groups: pregnant women, people with chronic diseases; people aged 65 and over; children aged 2 years and under.
