H1N1 flu is spreading in Central Minnesota. Schools are reporting lots of cases and several children have been hospitalized.

According to website WebMD, symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Many patients have had diarrhea and vomiting.

Your best defense is to practice preventive health measures:

1. Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing.
2. Wash your hands frequently, particularly before and after eating.
3. Stay home if you're feeling unwell -- both to help you recover more quickly and to avoid prolonging the virus by spreading it to others.

For the latest H1N1 information, check the Mayo Clinic website, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Health Reference Center database.