Swine flu is a disease of pigs. It is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by one of many Influenza A viruses. Approximately 1% to 4% of pigs that get swine flu die from it. It is spread among pigs by direct and indirect contact, aerosols, and from pigs that are infected but do not have symptoms.
Most commonly, swine flu is of the H1N1 influenza subtype. However, they can sometimes come from the other types, such as H1N2, H3N1, and H3N2.
The current outbreak of swine flu that has infected humans is of the H1N1 type - this type is not as dangerous as some others.
These are the signs and symptoms of swine influenza in humans. They are similar to those of regular flu, and include:
• Headaches
• Tiredness
• Chills
• Cough and sneezing
• Weakness and fatigue
• Aching muscles and joints
• Sore throat
• Runny nose
• Diarrhoea or stomach upset
• Loss of appetite
These are the Serious signs and symptoms:
• Fast breathing or trouble breathing
• Bluish or gray skin color
• Not drinking enough fluids
• Severe or persistent vomiting
• Not waking up or not interacting
• Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
• Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough
There are some drugs around that can effectively treat swine flu infection in humans - and many types of flu infections in humans. There are two main types:
• Adamantanes (amantadine and remantadine)
• Inhibitors of influenza neuraminidase (oseltamivir and zanamivir)
Most previous swine influenza human cases recovered completely without the need for medical attention.
Protection To be Taken To Protect From Swine Flu:
• Wash your hands regularly with soap
• Try to stay healthy
• Get plenty of sleep
• Do plenty of exercise
• Try to manage your stress
• Take actions to lower your stress levels
• Drink plenty of liquids
• Eat a well balanced diet
• Refrain from touching surfaces which may have the virus
• Do not get close to people who are sick
• Stay away from crowded areas if there is a swine flu outbreak in your area
• Cover your mouth and nose.
• Stay home when you are sick.
