Posts Tagged ‘swine flu virus’

How You Can Prevent The Spread Of Swine Flu

Friday, February 12th, 2010

Although Swine Flu might have left the papers at the present time, it is still making its unsavoury presence felt around the earth, with cases coming to light every day in spite of the medications and various treatments that are available for the virus now. There are a number of methods in which you’re able to prevent the continued spread of the virus and also prevent catching it yourself.

You could avoid the spread of this illness by placing a tissue over your face if you sneeze, and then throwing away the tissue and either washing your hands with soap and hot water or by making use of one of the numerous antibacterial cleansing gels out there at present. You could also cover your mouth while coughing, and avoid physical contact with those people who are dealing with the Swine Flu affliction already.

If you do come into touch with an infected person, then be sure to clean your hands straight away and ensure you do not get close to the sufferer. In order to prevent yourself  actually catching the Swine Flu affliction, these suggestions also fit, but there are other methods as well.

When it is the time for influenza to be doing the malicious rounds, you can help improve your body’s immune system and your body’s regular physical defences by being certain you have ample amounts of Vitamin C, protein and also Zinc.

Vitamin C and Zinc supplements are widely available at discount prices, and you can positively keep your protein intake at a good level by eating poultry, eggs and cheeses. Fish is a positive suggestion as well, as fish contains vitamins, a decent amount of protein and omega 3 oils, all of which will help you to strengthen your immune system to fight off the virus.

Be sure you have a sensible diet that involves all of the food groups to be  certain that you have enough of the nutrition your body requires to combat the Swine Flu Virus. With a decent diet and sensible hygiene routines, you are able to strengthen your defences to fight off the Swine Flu virus as well as help to stop it spreading still further. Remember- Swine Flu may have moved from the papers, but it is still substantial news for us all.

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Swine Flu Essentials- Everything You Need To Understand!

Saturday, February 6th, 2010

With the current scare of a swine flu pandemic, lots of attention around the world has been focused on how to thwart and otherwise avoid the swine flu.  Most of the information is common sense and follows along the lines of prevention and treatment of the common flu.

So how did swine flu start?

The transmission and start of swine flu use to be transmitted from pig to pig and only in unusual cases transmit to humans. The origins of swine flu might have been that humans first transmitted the influenza bug to pigs before they developed their own variety. The influenza season brings a mix of influenza viruses resulting in the increased risk of transmission and infection from pigs to humans, causing cross-species transmission. Recognized swine flu viruses are the H1N1 subtype as well as less popular subtypes like H1N2, H3N1 or H3N2.Therefore, a pig might be infected by more than one type of virus.

Infection Risk

Human to human infection was once limited to a close group of people, before the Mexico incidents on April 2009. Prior to that swine influenza was passed from infected pigs that had direct contact to human, mostly their owners.

Safety - Consumption of Pork?

It is safe to eat pork. So far, no documentation is available indicative of a link between safely prepared pork and human swine flu virus. The swine flu virus is destroyed by cooking temperatures of in the order of 160 Degrees Fahrenheit.

Vaccine Safeguard Against The Swine Flu Virus?

Up to now (End of April 2009) there are no vaccines known immunizing individuals from this influenza virus infection. Each year there is usually an flu vaccine being released, however it is ambiguous if this flu protection works on the swine flu bug. Please, do not take risks and make an appointment with your health professional at any signs of influenza illness.

Previous

The influenza virus is widespread and follows a pattern of seasonal occurrence. In some cases it has developed resistance towards antiviral medication and therefore reducing the success of treatment.

So far in Mexico or the United States, health officials have suggested the use of oseltamivir or zanamivir for treatment.  Make an informed decision by visiting your local health centre or doctor in case of observed signs of the virus.

What Are Typical Symptoms of Swine Flu Virus?

Severe respiratory tract infections of any kind throughout the influenza season could be an warning for swine flu infection. Even mild symptoms should be taken seriously, especially by kids, elderly people, pregnant or any physically weakened persons like patients or people on some sort of drug program. Please search for your next nearest health information, be it from your doctor or any qualified medical practitioner.

How To Decrease The Threat Of Infection?

Avoid individuals who seem to have the flu, especially those with symptoms of fever or coughing.

Eat healthy foods and drink 100 % fruit liquids or clean water. Avoid uncooked meat, especially pig, cooked as specified above should be okay.  Practice recommended health habits such as physical fitness as much as possible.

Should someone in your family unit be infected make sure you take that person to the hospital or doctor for advice and treatment. If it’s not possible keep that person at least 3 feet away from others.

Improve the circulation of air in the room where the sick person is staying. Use doors and windows, when at all possible, for the aeration.

Keep the area clean from dust or any open cans, dustbins etc. Do not forget to wash your hands properly each time after contact with the infected person. COVER MOUTH AND NOSE with masks from your local authority or pharmacy. They must be fresh and unused.

Prevention of swine flu is easier than you think.  First, do not live in fear.  This alone will undermine your immune system.  Living a healthy daily life is the best preventitive measure.  The stronger your immune system, the less likely you will catch the flu.

Good fortune and good health!

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Agents Of Swine Flu

Sunday, October 4th, 2009

The world at large is shocked and surprised to see the outbreak of swine flu. This pandemic left no time for doctors to know about its occurrence and killed about 100 people in Mexico. With no vaccine available for curing swine flu infected, this disease became a big challenge for the medical fraternity. Swine flu is a virus just like the one that can cause seasonal flu. However, swine flu virus has no cure and our immune system is not equipped to fight it, thus making it a threat to us. Swine flu originated in La Gloria and Mexico and spread to various other countries.

Swine flu is caused by micro organisms that can not be seen with the naked eye. The virus is alike to that of regular flu. This influenza “A” H1N1 is known to be contagious and can quickly spread from person to person. Experts say that the organism that causes swine flu is not a bacteria but a virus and it does multiply fast. The swine flu virus also contains pigs and birds’ components for which our immune system has no defense. This flu was only found among pigs until a few days back when we found these cases in humans too.

Swine flu can easily be passed on to others. The virus can get on to you through air particles and thus you can see large numbers of people in surgical masks. An infected person can pass on this disease even before he knows he has been infected. The infected person may not show the symptoms of swine flu instantly. High fever, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, cough and chills are some of the indications of this virus. The infected person needs to be isolated as he/she can pass on this disease to others within no time.

The sudden outbreak of swine fluhas brought up the complex issue of being ready with medicines, and machinery to fight such life threatening viruses. Due to the occurrence of SARS and bird flu, the medical experts are certainly ready with few vaccines that can at least help to stop this virus from developing further. A tablet called a Tamiflu is distributed widely as it can restrict this virus from growing further.

Entire populations in the US and many other nations are living in fear of getting infected with H1N1 virus. This sudden occurrence of virus has made many people stay indoors or step out only with the protection mask. People also wear funny and creative masks away from surgical masks. However, doctors do not recommend these fancy masks as they are unsure if it can really protect you from the deadly virus.

In such a terrified situation, one has to take care and follow preventive measures to stay away from swine flu. Maintaining high level of hygiene is of utter importance to avoid the spread of virus. Eat fresh food and include more of vegetables and fruits in your diet. Wash your hands and clothes with medicated products that can kill the germs. As of now where the while whole world is waiting for a solution to this deadly virus, we can only protect ourselves by being safe.

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All About Texas Swine Flu

Saturday, September 19th, 2009

The swine flu outbreak of 2009 has reached pandemic proportions. There have been several cases confirmed as well as suspected ones in many countries around the world. After Mexico, the highest number of cases was reported from US. The first reported case of death due to swine flu in US was that of a Texas swine flu patient. The authorities have taken various measures to avoid spread of the flu to other citizens.

Swine flu virus has been a great cause of worry for all. It is a combination of genetic material from birds, pigs and humans. The worst part is that it spreads easily from human to human. In Texas the earliest known case of swine flu occurred around April 11 and that of a Texas resident on April 27. There have been reports of 61 cases of Swine Flu in Texas in the 254 counties of Texas.

The first case of death reported in US was of a 23 month old undergoing treatment at Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston. The child was from Mexico City, Brownsville and was treated in Houston. As on 5th May, 2009 first case of death of a US citizen was in Texas. Authorities have not provided much detail. She was in her 30’s and lived in Cameron County. It is along the border of Mexico. The Texas Department of State Health Services confirmed that she died earlier this week.

Statewide high school academic and athletic competitions were postpond until May 11 in Texas. This is to ensure the flu does not spread. The classes were cancelled in the five districts together with suburban San Antonio. The five districts are Rio Grande City near the border, Schertz-Cibolo, Cleburne in North Texas, Comal, and New Braunfels. With the suspension of high school sporting events, the baseball and other regional track championships are also off now.

The Texas health and human services commission has issued detailed information on the preventive measures that would help you to safeguard against the flu. They have put forth the 3 C’s that can be really helpful; clean, cover and contain. Whether you are infected or not, ensure that you clean you hands often. Cover your mouth and nose while coughing and sneezing and use a tissue which can be thrown into a thrash can. To contain the virus spreading, stay away from those who are sick. Preferably stay at home and avoid social gatherings in such times.

The health departments have also issued guidelines and information for child care providers. Similarly, they have provided detailed information about swine flu so as to create awareness and ensure that there is no panic reaction among citizens. Hospitals that handle flu cases are taking necessary precautions like masks and sanitation measures to prevent flu transmission.

With Texas sharing a border with Mexico, there has been concern of higher infection rate in the region. However, with the support of citizens and the efforts of the health department, they hope to keep the flu under control. There are sufficient medications available for all those who need it. Though we do not have a vaccine at the moment, prevention would be the best medicine and due care in coordination with the health officials will make it possible to contain the spread of flu.

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Infromation About Swine Flu Symptoms

Monday, September 7th, 2009

Swine flu as the name suggests normally does not affect humans, but pigs. However, the current outbreak is due to the swine flu influenza A (H1N1). It has components of pig and bird influenza virus and humans do not have any immunity to it. However, the report about its occurrence across many countries has lead to the fear that it may become pandemic. It is very important that we know the swine flu symptoms, and if we notice some approach the health care experts to find out the exact reason.

Swine flu symptoms

It may be very difficult for you to identify if you have swine flu or the normal seasonal flu. This is because the symptoms of swine flu are very similar to the seasonal form of influenza. A very important point to note is that the viruses causing this illness cause fever, respiratory problems and fatigue. Among the most common symptoms are high fever, cough, headache and chills. One can see a person suffering from runny nose or even stuffy nose and soreness of throat. Similarly you may feed extremely tired, experience body ache and sometimes diarrhea and vomiting. Swine flu is a weakening disease and causes extreme fatigue and respiratory problems. Pneumonia and respiratory failure are among the more serious complications of swine flu.

You may feel confused if you find these symptoms in your children or anyone you know. This is because spring allergies, common cold, strep throat, sinus infection etc have similar symptoms. If you want to find out the cause of any of these ailments you should consult the doctor who may advise you to take an additional test to confirm if its swine flu.

What you need to do?

If you are experiencing such symptoms then ensure that due care is taken. If you have been to any of the sensitive areas like Mexico, it is recommended that you see the doctor immediately. Let your doctor review the symptoms and decide. The doctor would be able to determine if its swine flu but it may be necessary to take a sample and send it to the laboratory for testing for swine flu.

At the moment there is no vaccine that protects against swine flu. Tests have shown that the human swine flu H1N1can be treated effectively with antivirals, Tamiflu and Relenza if taken within 48 hours of infection. To avoid spread of flu you need to take a few precautionary measures. It is important to remember that it is contagious and can easily spread from one person to another. A person should cover his mouth and nose while doing sneeze or cough. Dispose off the tissue into the trash. Swine flu virus can spread by touching an infected person or even if you touch something used by the person. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water and avoid touching your face.

It is very important to stay informed about the developments in the community. You should check out websites and newspapers as well as the health care centers in your area for regular information on the Swine flu. Take preventive measures as instructed by them and develop a family emergency plan of essential supplies like facemasks, medicines etc. A person should instantly contact his doctor after noticing any of the swine flu symptoms.

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Swine Flu Symptoms

Sunday, September 6th, 2009

Generally pigs are the victims of swine flu. However, the current outbreak is due to the swine flu influenza A (H1N1). It has components of pig and bird influenza virus and humans do not have any immunity to it. However, the report about its occurrence across many countries has lead to the fear that it may become pandemic. It is very important that we know the swine flu symptoms, and if we notice some approach the health care experts to find out the exact reason.

Swine flu symptoms

It may be very difficult for you to identify if you have swine flu or the normal seasonal flu. This is because the symptoms of swine flu are very similar to the seasonal form of influenza. A very important point to note is that the viruses causing this illness cause fever, respiratory problems and fatigue. Among the most common symptoms are high fever, cough, headache and chills. Runny nose or even stuffy nose and soreness of throat are experienced by the person. Similarly you may feed extremely tired, experience body ache and sometimes diarrhea and vomiting. Swine flu is a weakening disease and causes extreme fatigue and respiratory problems. Pneumonia and respiratory failure are among the more serious complications of swine flu.

You may feel confused if you find these symptoms in your children or anyone you know. This is because spring allergies, common cold, strep throat, sinus infection etc have similar symptoms. If you want to find out the cause of any of these ailments you should consult the doctor who may advise you to take an additional test to confirm if its swine flu.

What you need to do?

If you are experiencing such symptoms then ensure that due care is taken. If you have been to any of the sensitive areas like Mexico, it is recommended that you see the doctor immediately. Let your doctor review the symptoms and decide. The doctor would be able to determine if its swine flu but it may be necessary to take a sample and send it to the laboratory for testing for swine flu.

Until now no medications have been invented to cure swine flu. Tests have shown that the human swine flu H1N1can be treated effectively with antivirals, Tamiflu and Relenza if taken within 48 hours of infection. To avoid spread of flu you need to take a few precautionary measures. It is important to remember that it is contagious and can easily spread from one person to another. Covering of mouth and nose is necessary while doing sneeze or cough. Dispose off the tissue into the trash. Swine flu virus can spread by touching an infected person or even if you touch something used by the person. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water and avoid touching your face.

It is very important to stay informed about the developments in the community. You should check out websites and newspapers as well as the health care centers in your area for regular information on the Swine flu. Take preventive measures as instructed by them and develop a family emergency plan of essential supplies like facemasks, medicines etc. In case you notice any of the swine flu symptoms contact your doctor immediately.

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From Where Did Swine Flu Occur ?

Friday, September 4th, 2009

Swine flu outbreak of 2009 has caught us unawares. Experts have been unable to provide any specific information about the origin of swine flu infection this time around. Research is underway to find out the exact cause and the source of the virus that has kept everyone on their toes for the last few days. No one is sure of swine flu’s origin. However, the first cases were detected in Mexico. The results of the studies would be able to point the exact nature and source of the flu, that will enable find preventive measures.

The swine flu virus is a new strain of influenza virus. Currently WHO has given it a rating of risk level 5. The first detected cases were in Mexico and United States and experts are trying to find out if it has relation to late season flue cases in Mexico and other cases from Texas and California. Reports have come in about more suspected cases in Mexico and US as well as other countries.

The research carried out on the virus suggests that it is a reassortment of four strains of influenza ‘A’ virus subtype H1N1. The four component strains identified were one endemic in birds, one in humans and two in pigs. There have been further tests and studies conducted. However, some scientists have stated that the swine flu viral genome has all RNA segments of swine origin. Usually swine flu spreads from pigs to humans who come in contact with them. This is a virulent strain which has been spreading from humans to humans. The people affected have not been in contact with any pigs infected with swine flu.

The first diagnosis was that of a patient who fell ill on March 30 in San Diego County, California. The second case came up on April 17 of a person who had fallen ill on March 28 in Imperial County, California. The outbreak seen in Mexico City was around March 18. Initial assumption by the Mexican authorities was that the cases of influenza like illness were that of late season flu. However, an alert was sounded on April 21 when US Center for Disease Control and Prevention alerted about two isolated cases of a novel swine flu. Samples sent from Mexico to CDC and WHO confirmed the samples as that of H1N1. Some doctors tracking swine flu cases in California feel that Mexico may not be the origin of the virus. It may have originated around the border region of California.

The virus has affected mainly young, healthy adults. Usually influenza strains cause worst symptoms in young children and elderly who have a weaker immune system. The innate unpredictability of influenza strains makes it difficult to forecast anything about it.

At the end of April, WHO expressed concern of it becoming a worldwide pandemic. The concern mainly is because the virus easily spreads from humans to humans and is not from pigs to humans. As there is constant movement of people from one place to another or even a new country, the concern about a looming pandemic has grown.

There is yet no specific information about the origin of swine flu outbreak of 2009. Research is ongoing and experts vaccines are being developed to keep people safe. It could be Mexico, California or some other place. We will have to simply wait and watch and be careful.

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Source Of Swine Flu

Thursday, September 3rd, 2009

Swine flu outbreak of 2009 has caught us unawares. Experts have been unable to provide any specific information about the origin of swine flu infection this time around. Scientists are doing experiments to know the the exact cause and the source of the virus. No one is sure of swine flu’s origin. However, the first cases were detected in Mexico. The results of the studies would be able to point the exact nature and source of the flu, that will enable find preventive measures.

The swine flu virus is a new strain of influenza virus. Currently WHO has given it a rating of risk level 5. The first detected cases were in Mexico and United States and experts are trying to find out if it has relation to late season flue cases in Mexico and other cases from Texas and California. Reports have come in about more suspected cases in Mexico and US as well as other countries.

The research carried out on the virus suggests that it is a reassortment of four strains of influenza ‘A’ virus subtype H1N1. The four component strains identified were one endemic in birds, one in humans and two in pigs. There have been further tests and studies conducted. According to some scientists the swine flu viral genome has all RNA segments of swine origin. Usually swine flu spreads from pigs to humans who come in contact with them. This is a virulent strain which has been spreading from humans to humans. The people affected have not been in contact with any pigs infected with swine flu.

The first diagnosis was that of a patient who fell ill on March 30 in San Diego County, California. The second case came up on April 17 of a person who had fallen ill on March 28 in Imperial County, California. The outbreak seen in Mexico City was around March 18. Initial assumption by the Mexican authorities was that the cases of influenza like illness were that of late season flu. However, an alert was sounded on April 21 when US Center for Disease Control and Prevention alerted about two isolated cases of a novel swine flu. Samples sent from Mexico to CDC and WHO confirmed the samples as that of H1N1. Some doctors tracking swine flu cases in California feel that Mexico may not be the origin of the virus. It may have originated around the border region of California.

The virus has affected mainly young, healthy adults. Usually influenza strains cause worst symptoms in young children and elderly who have a weaker immune system. The innate unpredictability of influenza strains makes it difficult to forecast anything about it.

At the end of April, WHO expressed concern of it becoming a worldwide pandemic. The concern mainly is because the virus easily spreads from humans to humans and is not from pigs to humans. As there is constant movement of people from one place to another or even a new country, the concern about a looming pandemic has grown.

There is yet no specific information about the origin of swine flu outbreak of 2009. Besides the studies vaccines are also being prepared to keep away from this disease. It could be Mexico, California or some other place. We will have to simply wait and watch and be careful.

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A Survey About Swine Flu Incubation Period

Friday, August 28th, 2009

Swine flu is the word that has spread fear and panic across the globe in the past few days. This deadly disease is not restricted to US but gone international as well and hence it is announced as a pandemic. Swine flu is just another virus that has caused 17 people to lose their life in Mexico and many other casualties. This deadly virus is known to infect pigs, until it got on to humans just few days back. It is still unclear as to how this flu got on to humans without getting in touch with pigs.

Swine flu is known as the H1N1A as it can be transferred from one person to another. A global outbreak is known as pandemic. With swine flu spreading across countries, there are several people worried if they have become a victim of this virus. People who have traveled from US or Mexico in past few days are more anxious to know the incubation period of swine flu virus. So far there are no clear evidences as to how much time it takes for the symptoms to develop. However, some cases in US reveal that incubation period for swine flu varies from two to seven days.

As per the reports, swine flu is known to have occurred in Mexico and La Gloria somewhere around 9th of March. Near 13th of April a large number of cases of swine flu were caught in Mexico. It is also said that students from New York who had visited Cancun got infected on their 10 day visit. Thus the exact time that the swine flu virus takes to exhibit symptoms is not very clear. People with weak immune system are known to easily succumb to this disease. 

People are easily affected by swine flu. The symptoms of swine flu are also similar to that of regular flu. A person should consult the doctor if suffering from cough, high fever, vomiting, chills, diarrhea or dizziness.  Although you are urged to stay away from people with these signs, it is also said that a person infected with the flu can show its signs a little late. However, the flu can be passed on to another person even before the symptoms are shown and this is the main reason why all people are asked to wear mask before stepping out.

The swine flu viruscan be found on tables, utensils or even clothes if an infected person has come in contact with it there are chances of infection. Therefore as a preventive measure it is advisable to wash your hands frequently with medicated soap to get rid of germs and virus. Clothes and belongings of an infected person should not be used or washed well with anti virus agents. Also a person infected with swine flu needs to take instant medication to fight the disease. A tablet called as Tamiflu if taken immediately within a day of symptoms appearing can help stop its growth.A person cannot be a victim of swine flu only if he takes preventive measures.

The number of days needed for growth is not clear till now. Thus the swine flu incubation period remains uncertain and one can only follow preventive measures as a protective measure against the disease.

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