Swine Flu Facts – The Things You Should Know

Recently, it has been seen how a swine flu outbreak has affected people in many countries. It proved fatal for almost everyone who got infected from the swine influenza virus. As per a recent health study, the swine flu virus transmits with surprising speed in humans. It spreads easily from person to person causing serious illness.

Origin of swine flu virus

Swine influenza is caused by Influenza A virus. In 1930, influenza A (H1N1) virus was identified from an infected pig. Swine flu is the respiratory disease, which commonly affects pigs. In the past, the people who came in direct or close contact with infected pigs, only would get this infection. But recent reports have shown that the swine influenza has also been diagnosed in humans who never had any exposure to pigs.

Swine flu symptoms

Common swine influenza symptoms are fever, sore throat, chills, severe headaches, muscle pain, lethargy, cough, lack of appetite and weakness. Some people may also experience runny nose, vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea. These symptoms of swine influenza may develop three to five days after exposure to the virus and may last for eight to ten days. H1N1 flu is a mild illness in most people and they get well rest, drinking lots of water, and flu medications. Some groups of people are at high risk than others. The condition may worsen and if left untreated, may cause death.

Difference between common flu and swine flu

Swine flu is highly contagious and infectious in humans and can be fatal. The flu, which people generally contract every fall is known as common flu or regular flu. Unlike common flu, H1N1 virus originates in the intestine of pigs and transferred from human to human. Although there are many similarities between regular flu and swine flu, they are two different strains of influenza. Frankly speaking, you may not be able to distinguish between H1N1 and common flu on your own, as in both cases the symptoms are almost same.

Tips to prevent H1N1 infection

There is no human vaccine available for swine flu, so it can turn out to be a great danger to your life. Following some of the simple tips you can ward off swine flu:

Wear masks – It is the first and foremost safety measure to prevent H1N1 virus infecting you. If you are in a surrounding where this pandemic has occurred, wearing a mask will be the smartest way thing to do.

Personal hygiene – Maintaining your personal hygiene is the best way to prevent virus to spread. Always use tissues while coughing and sneezing.

Avoid going to crowded areas – Your chances of getting swine flu increase when you come in contact with a crowd. Who knows the person standing beside you might be infected by this virus.

Antiviral treatment

Tamiflu (oseltamivir) is one of the most preferred antivirals for influenza treatment. It attacks the H1N1 virus and prevents it from spreading in your body. Tamiflu is effective if it is taken within 48 hours of the symptoms being apparent. It reduces the complications associated with it and possibly shortens the illness.