SWINE FLU

Swine Flu

H1N1 (referred to as “swine flu” early on) is a new influenza virus causing illness in people.This virus was originally referred to as “swine flu” because laboratory testing shows it has two genes from flu viruses that normally circulate in pigs in Europe and Asia and avian genes and human genes. The virus has been spread by person-to-person contact.

What is the current situation?

The outbreak of swine flu has now become a pandemic, which means it has spread globally. The virus has spread quickly because it is a new type of virus that few, if any, people have resistance to. Human infection with swine flu (H1N1) viruses has been confirmed in several countries around the globe, including several cases in India. However, Indian doctors are positive and have stated that the swine flu can be treated if caught early with anti viral prescription medicine.

Swine flu – Symptoms – (H1N1 Virus)

The symptoms of swine flu are broadly the same as those of the seasonal or ordinary flu, but may be more severe and cause more serious complications.

The typical symptoms are:
sudden fever, and
sudden cough.
Other symptoms may include:
headache, tiredness, chills, aching muscles, limb or joint pain, diarrhoea or stomach upset,
sore throat, runny nose, sneezing, and Loss of appetite.

Potentially everyone is at risk from swine flu because few people, if any at all, have immunity (resistance) to it.
It is best to contact your Doctor if you suffer from the abovementioned symptoms and avoid self medication.
There are a number of steps you can take to reduce the risk of getting flu and help stop the spread of the virus.

Prevention

There's a simple way to remember this:
CATCH IT. BIN IT. KILL IT.
To reduce the risk of catching or spreading the virus you should:
cover your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, using a tissue, throw the tissue away

quickly and carefully.
Wash your hands often with soap and water often, especially after you cough or sneeze.
Carry and use hand gel sanitisers / hand wipes while travelling or in locations / places where it is difficult to wash your hands.
Clean hard surfaces (like door handles and remote controls) frequently with a normal cleaning product

Preparation

A global pandemic has been declared. To prepare:
It is advisable to contact your Doctor immediately if you suffer from the above mentioned symptoms and avoid self medication.
always carry tissues - catching the germs in a tissue could help limit the spread of the virus.
Being homebound if infected prevents spread of the virus.
confirm your ‘flu friends’ - these are friends and neighbors who can help you if you become ill; they could get your medication or food for you so that you don’t have to leave the house - this will help stop the virus from spreading.
Please contact your family doctor for any queries / medical advice or refer to the World Health Organisation site for further details : www.whoindia.org