Recently public concern over the H1N1 virus, originally called Swine Flu, was elevated after the World Health Organization (WHO) declared it a pandemic. This change in status was based on the spread of the disease, not the level of danger it poses to victims.
The term ‘swine flu’ was originally coined when initial studies showed similarities between this virus and a virus normally found in pigs. Subsequent research has determined that it is different from the virus normally contracted by pigs in North America. Two genes in this virus are the same as genes in the virus found in pigs in other regions such as Europe and Asia. It is now referred to as the Novel H1N1 virus.
The transmission of the virus from pigs to humans is not very common. Interestingly, even when this happens it does not always result the person getting swine flu. Coming in contact with infected surfaces can lead to someone getting the condition. This happens when the surface is touched and the live virus is transferred to the nose, mouth and even the eyes with your hands. Inhaling the droplets from an infected person who coughed or sneezed without properly covering the mouth and nose is another cause of the condition.
Is Swine Flu Contagious?
It has been determined that this virus is in fact contagious. The first cases in the USA were reported in Southern California and Texas. The H1N1 virus is thought to pass from person to person in much the same way that cold or flu viruses are transmitted. There is no risk of getting it from eating pork products.
The Symptoms of Swine Flu
The symptoms are similar to ordinary flu symptoms, which increases the risk of misdiagnosis. The symptoms are:
• Fever
• Aches and pains
• Fatigue
• Chills
• Sore throat
• Runny nose
• Coughing
There have also been reported cases of diarrhea and vomiting associated with the swine flu.
Protecting Yourself from Swine Flu
Scientists may not have all the answers about how swine flu is transmitted but you can still take steps to protect yourself.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water
• Avoid contact with anyone who displays symptoms of a cold
• Keep a bottle of hand sanitizer with you in case you do not have access to water
• People who work with pigs should take extra precautions to protect themselves while at work
• Avoid group activities unless absolutely necessary
• Listen for public health advisories concerning H1N1
If you find that you are displaying any flu-like symptoms try to avoid contact with others until you have been examined by a doctor or had tests done. Stay home from work or school, and be sure to keep your mouth and nose covered when you cough or sneeze.
The Swine Flu Vaccine
Recently a company called Novartis AG, based in Switzerland, announced it had created a swine flu vaccine. It is currently undergoing testing. According to the WHO, vaccines will most likely be available to the public by September.
As with seasonal flu, children are likely to be the most seriously affected by swine flu. Pregnant women should also take precaution to protect themselves. According to information gathered people older than 60 do not seem to be at increased risk of developing complications from this illness. At present the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and health agencies in other countries globally continues to keep a close watch on development related to this illness, and new information will be passed on as it becomes available.
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July 24th, 2010 at 5:39 am
valuable information on swine flu