How to treat suspected flu cases Published Oct. 14, 2009 366th Medical Group MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho -- With Gunfighters and their families among the hundreds being affected by the seasonal and H1N1 flues, the 366th Medical Group provided the following information on how to deal with suspected cases. Only those who are high risk for complications need to be seen by a medical provider. These people include: · Pregnant women · Children 5 years of age or younger, especially those under 2 years of age · Adults 65 years of age or older · Adults and children with certain chronic medical or immunosuppressive conditions: - Cancer - Chronic lung disease (i.e. asthma) - Diabetes - Heart disease - Kidney disorders - Blood disorders - Liver disorders - Neurological disorders (MS including nervous system, brain or spinal cord) · Children less than 19 years of age who are on chronic aspirin therapy and at risk for Reye's Syndrome if they become ill with influenza If not in the high risk group, simple symptomatic relief can be achieved at home, which also decreases the risk of spreading the flu. If an active-duty member is at low risk for complications, has a fever of 100 degrees Fahrenheit and a cough or sore throat, his supervisor is authorized to grant 24-hour quarters. Airmen should remain home until they are fever free without the use of fever-reducing medication. Report to the urgent care center or local emergency room if you experience difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen, sudden dizziness, confusion, severe or persistent vomiting or flu-like symptoms which improve but then return with fever and worsening cough. A Medical Group Flu Hotline has been set up and can be reached at 828-7124. A health-care provider may grant callers up to 72 hour quarters or request they report to the UCC.