Here are answers to common questions about the outbreak of swine influenza, based on information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Diabetes Association (ADA).

What are the symptoms of swine flu?
The symptoms of swine flu are similar to those of regular human flu: fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue. Diarrhea and vomiting have also been reported by some of those affected. Incubation times usually are from one to four days.

How can I avoid getting swine flu?
The virus spreads from person to person, through the air-as in a cough-or by physical contact. The best way to steer clear of swine flu is to avoid getting too close to sick people. But just in case, make sure to wash your hands frequently with soap and water or with alcohol-based sanitizers.

What should I do if I have flu-like symptoms?
Don't panic and use common sense. If you have symptoms, call your doctor. Your doctor can tell you if flu testing or treatment is necessary. If you are feeling sick, stay home and avoid contact with people to prevent spreading the illness.

What about travel?
According to the CDC, travel to Mexico should be avoided unless it is essential. The CDC also recommends that the elderly and people with chronic illnesses, like diabetes, lung disease, and heart disease, who are susceptible to flu infection, should consider taking antiviral medications during travel even within the United States. The recommended antiviral prescription drugs for swine flu are oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and zanamivir (Relenza). These medications fight swine flu by inhibiting viral reproduction in your body and can prevent infection.

What about people with diabetes?
ADA is monitoring the CDC alerts and will disseminate breaking information relevant for people with diabetes as it becomes available. Guidance and answers to specific questions are available at diabetes.org or by phoning ADA's National Call Center at 1-800-DIABETES (1-800-342-2383).