Swine Flu: The Pandemic Influenza

Swine Flu or H1N1 Flu is a new variant of influenza virus, which causes a contagious disease in humans just like any other influenza virus. The virus spreads from human to human.

The genes of the H1N1 virus are similar to the influenza virus that occurs in the pigs in North America. Hence, also known as the ‘Swine Flu’.

Spread

H1N1 virus spreads from person to person by the means of coughing or sneezing by the people already suffering from influenza. Sometimes the infection may spread by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching one’s nose, mouth or eyes.

A human can be contagious from 1 day before the symptoms development to upto 7 days after the sickness. Children might be contagious for longer periods.

The swine flu virus does not spread by any food, be it pork or pork products. The virus can survive and infect a person for upto 2-8 hours after being into the environment.

Risk Factors

Older people (65 years and above), children (5 years and younger), pregnant women (risk of premature birth) and people suffering from chronic medical conditions.

Symptoms

The symptoms of H1N1 viral disease resemble the symptoms of seasonal influenza, including chills, fever, sore throat, running or stuffy nose, cough, body ache, muscle pains, headache, fatigue, weakness, general discomfort, diarrhea and vomiting.

The only sign of infection is the presence of antibodies in the blood when examined in the laboratory.

Prevention

Healthy people should avoid crowds (social distancing). Use of disinfectants and temperature control should be encouraged to limit the virus in the environment.

Sick people should limit their contact with other people and stay home for 7 days after the symptoms begin or until they become symptom-free. They should cover their mouth, nose and close the eyes on coughing or sneezing and should clean their hands, on every cough or sneeze. Needless to say, seek medical care.