4 May 2009
Essential Information about Swine Flu
Posted by Butterfly under: Flu .
Government health officials around the world are now on high alert to tackle, prepare, and prevent a swine flu pandemic.
“Every member of the public has a part to play in limiting the risk of a full-blown pandemic. So far, the rapid responses by governments and international agencies have triggered effective mechanisms to protect the public. But the vital role and responsibility of the individual should not be ignored.” *
The current Swine flu outbreak is certainly worse than normal seasonal flu. You need to be cautious and protect yourself for the sake of individual and public health, but don’t panic.
Here are some facts about Swine flu:
What is swine flu?
Swine flu is a highly contagious acute respiratory disease of pigs, caused by one of several swine A viruses. Outbreaks in pigs occur year round, with an increased incidence in the autumn and winter in temperate zones. Although swine flu viruses are normally species specific and only infect pigs, they do sometimes cross the species barrier to cause disease in humans.
What are the symptoms of swine flu in humans?
Symptoms are expected to be similar to the symptoms of seasonal flu and include fever, lethargy, lack of appetite and coughing. Some people with swine flu have reported a runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.
How does swine flu spread?
Flu viruses can be directly transmitted from pigs to people and from people to pigs. Flu viruses from pigs are most likely to occur when people are in close proximity to infected pigs, such as in pig barns. Human-to-human transmission of swine flu can also occur, in the same way as seasonal flu occurs, which is mainly person-to-person transmission through coughing or sneezing of people infected with the flu virus. People may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.
What can I do to prevent swine flu?
Reduce your risk of swine flu and other flu viruses:
* Avoid close contact with people who have respiratory symptoms such as coughing or sneezing
* Get plenty of rest and sleep when you are sick
* Wash your hands with soap and water frequently and thoroughly
* Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth to spread germs
* Stay active, drink plenty of fluids and have a diet rich in vitamin C and antioxidants
Share this important information with others.
* Source: The Lancelot, Editorial online 29 April, 2009
Useful Links
Federal Department of Health and Ageing
US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
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