Q:What is Swine Flu?
Swine flu is a respiratory disease usually found in pigs. Its caused by H1N1 influenza virus and results in chills, coughing, high fever, fatigue, headache, loss of appetite. The spread of the virus was restricted to regions and was only occasionally transmit ted to people, mainly to hog farmers and veterinarians.
But in 2009, researchers found a new strain of the H1N1 virus in mexico which was capable of transmission to humans and could spread very rapidly among the human population. This strain of virus spread very rapidly and was declared a pandemic.
Q:How is Swine Flu transmitted?
Swine Flu spreads in humans the very same way as seasonal flu. Its transmitted from human to humans through inhalation or by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus, then touching the mouth or nose.The virus is expelled in the air by an infected person sneezing or coughing.
Q:How is that the Swine Flu virus is now infecting humans?
The virus is capable of mutation and through a process called antigenic shift where its genetic material changes, its become capable of infecting humans.
Q:What are the symptoms of Swine Flu?
Swine Flu symptoms are like any other seasonal influenza infection and causes cough, headache, high fever, fatigue, headache and nasal secretions. Some patients also report nausea, chills, diarrhea, sore throat, rashes and body aches.
In the 2009 pandemic influenza increased number of diarrhea and vomiting cases were reported by patients.
The H1N1 virus attacks the respiratory system and most deaths are reported due to respiratory failure, other causes which lead to exigency are excessive dehydration, pneumonia, Kidney failure.
Q:Who is at higher risk of contracting Swine Flu?
People with lesser immunity and those suffering from chronic ailments are at higher risk of contracting H1N1 virus.
So, children younger than 5 years, elderly people above the age of 65, and pregnant women.
Besides these people suffering from Heart diseases, Blood disorders, Diabetes, Asthma, Neurological conditions, weakened immune system, Kidney disorders, Liver disorders, COPD, Lung Diseases are at higher risk.
Q:How is Swine Flu diagnosed?
As the symptoms are very similar to seasonal influenza, a correct diagnosis of H1N1 requires a specialized lab test to identify the particular antigens (surface proteins) associated with the virus type. If a doctor suspects H1N1 infection the samples are sent to specialized labs for testing. Also, the sample has to be carefully handled to avoid any spread on infection incase the sample is actually infected.
Q:How is swine flu treated?
The pandemic H1N1 swine flu virus is resistant to the older or seasonal flu drugs. Tamiflu and Relenza are two anti-viral drugs which can be used to treat H1N1. They are most effective when taken within 2 days of start of flu symptoms.
Another antviral drug which got approval from FDA in December 2014 is Peramivir,it is an intravenous drug, which can be advised to patients with severe flu or are hospitalized.
Also, not everyone who get contracted by H1N1 virus requires anti-flu drugs, many can recover fully with due care and precautions.
Q: What precautionary steps should be taken to prevent Swine Flu infection?
Following precautions should be taken to avoid Swine Flu infection:
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. Scrub for at least 20 seconds and rinse thoroughly.
- Use sanitizer to sanitize hands or objects which may have come in contact with the virus.
- Avoid close contact with people who have flu-like symptoms.
- Avoid touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.
- if you experience flu like symptoms then stay home till symptom free for 24 hours.
- Wear a face mask