As an expert in the field of infectious diseases, I can provide you with an in-depth understanding of the timeline for the onset and contagiousness of swine flu, also known as the H1N1 influenza virus.
Swine flu is an infectious respiratory illness caused by a type of influenza virus that primarily affects pigs. However, it can also infect humans and spread from person to person. The virus is transmitted through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also spread by touching something with the virus on it and then touching one's mouth or nose.
The Incubation Period
The incubation period for swine flu is typically between 1 to 4 days, with the average being 2 days. This is the time between when a person is infected with the virus and when symptoms begin to appear. The onset of symptoms can be sudden, with symptoms including fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue.

Symptoms Onset and Duration
Once the incubation period has passed, the symptoms of swine flu can appear abruptly. The most common symptoms are similar to those of regular seasonal flu and may include:

- Fever
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Body aches
- Headache
- Chills
- Fatigue
- Sometimes vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children)

The severity of the symptoms can vary widely from person to person. While most people recover from swine flu without complications, some may develop severe illness requiring hospitalization.

Contagiousness and Shedding Stage
An adult with swine flu is generally considered contagious as long as they have symptoms, which can last up to seven days from the onset of the illness. The "shedding stage" of the virus, during which the virus is most actively released from the body, typically lasts for the first 4 to 5 days of the illness. However, children may remain contagious for a longer period, up to 10 days.

Prevention and Treatment
Prevention of swine flu includes the same measures as for seasonal flu: getting vaccinated, practicing good hygiene (frequent handwashing, using hand sanitizer), and avoiding close contact with sick individuals. Antiviral medications can be prescribed to help reduce the severity and duration of the illness if taken early in the course of the disease.

Conclusion
Understanding the timeline of swine flu is crucial for managing the illness and preventing its spread. Early recognition of symptoms, prompt medical attention, and adherence to public health guidelines are key to minimizing the impact of swine flu on individuals and communities.

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An adult is usually contagious as long as they have symptoms - usually up to seven days following the beginning of the illness. The "shedding stage" of the virus is during the first 4-5 days of illness. Children can be considered contagious longer, up to 10 days. The initial incubation period is 24-48 hours.Apr 28, 2009read more >>