Swine Flu Symptoms
What is swine flu:
Swine Flu is a contagious flu virus that is normally found in pigs and is caused by the type A influenza virus. There are many different types of swine flu and the current cases involve the H1N1 strain of type A flu.
People do not usually catch swine flu, except in some cases where those in close contact with pigs have contracted the disease, but in this case the flu virus is passing easily from person to person, suggesting that it has mutated from the normally found strains of swine flu.
Type A flu is known to mutate extremely quickly, changing as it spreads from person to person, it is believed that it is spread in exactly the same way as seasonal flu.
This new strain of the H1N1 flu virus appears to be a mix of different animal and human strains of the disease, which appears to have resulted in a new strain to which people have little immunity.
Between 2005 & 2009 only 10 cases of swine flu were reported in the USA, which gives an indication of the alarm at the rate which swine flu is spreading in this instance.
Swine flu symptoms:
The symptoms of swine flu are similar to the flu symptoms exhibited by people with a normal seasonal influenza infection, and include:
Rapidly onset Fever;
Dry Cough;
Nasal Congestion;
Joint & Muscle Aches & Pains;
Sore throat;
Headaches;
Fatigue & Lethargy;
Antibiotics do not help fight flu symptoms since flu is a virus, the only medicines which help are antivirals.
It is not possible to contract swine flu by eating pork products.
Diagnosis of Swine Flu:
In order to diagnose swine flu a swab is needed from the nose or throat, and it then needs to be sent for analysis in a laboratory.
Treatment of Swine Flu:
Currently 2 flu medications are recommended by the CDC which are oseltamivir or zanamivir for the treatment and/or prevention of infection with swine influenza viruses.
There is presently no vaccine for this strain of swine flu, and it is unlikely that one will be available for several months.
Preventing the spread of Swine Flu:
Regularly and thoroughly wash your hands, and avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Try not to touch surfaces that may be contaminated with the swine flu virus, and avoid contact with people who are exhibiting flu like symptoms.
Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, dispose of the tissue properly after use.
If you exhibit flu like symptoms stay at home to limit your contact with others so that you do not infect them.
Make sure that you drink plenty of fluids.
Disclaimer - All information contained on the FluSymptoms.org.uk website is intended for informational purposes only. The information is not intended nor suited to be a replacement or substitute for professional medical treatment or for professional medical advice relative to medical questions or conditions.
We urge you to always seek the advice of your doctor or medical professional with respect to your medical conditions or questions.
