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The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised the pandemic alert level for Influenza A (H1N1), more commonly known as Swine Flu, to 5, just one level from a full-blown pandemic. A level 5 means the spread of the disease between humans is occurring in more than one country of one WHO region.
Based on the number of people who are ill from this disease and the rate at which it is spreading, it’s vital to understand what is known so far about the disease, who is at risk, and what precautions you can take to stay healthy.
Influenza, or the flu, is not new. Millions of people in the United States – about 5% to 20% of United States residents – will get influenza each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).
Normal seasonal flu is quite dangerous. An average of about 36,000 people per year in the United States die from influenza-related causes, and more than 200,000 have to be admitted to the hospital as a result of influenza-related causes.
Swine flu is even more serious because it’s new and unpredictable.
Early cases of Swine Flu in the U.S. were mild, although there has been at least one U.S. death from the disease. This virus may change unpredictably, becoming more or less severe.
So, here’s what you need to know.
What is Swine Flu?
Swine Flu is a viral infection caused by the Influenza A. The Swine Flu that is seen in the news is a combination of Swine Flu, Avian Influenza, and Human Influenza. The combination is of concern because it has not been seen before, and some deaths in Mexico have been attributed to this flu.
How does the flu spread?
Influenza viruses spread mainly from person to person in respiratory droplets of coughs or sneezes. Influenza viruses may also spread when a person touches respiratory droplets on another person or object, and then proceeds to touch their own mouth or nose before washing their hands
What are the symptoms of Swine Flu?
The initial onset of Swine Flu symptoms are the same as symptoms for any seasonal flu: fever greater than 100 degrees, headache, upper respiratory symptoms such as sore throat, cough and/or nasal congestion, body aches, fatigue and sometimes nausea/vomiting.
How can I protect myself from the Swine Flu?
Hand washing is an absolute must! Using a hand sanitizer in between hand washing is also recommended. Wash your hands frequently and especially before eating and after sneezing or coughing. If you visit your doctor’s office due to the above signs and symptoms of respiratory illness, make sure to wear a surgical mask to prevent spreading germs.
The CDC advises against “non-essential” travel to Mexico. The WHO doesn’t recommend travel restrictions, but people who are ill shouldn’t travel and travelers to any part of the world who get sick should seek medical attention.
If I had a flu shot this year, am I protected from Swine Flu?
No. If you’ve received the seasonal flu vaccine, you are not protected against Swine Flu. Each year, virologists anticipate which strain of flu will hit. Then, a vaccine containing 3 influenza viruses (inactive) is produced and distributed to the masses.
Vaccines change based upon scientific estimations of which type and strain of the virus will circulate each year. Since Swine Flu is a new virus and a combination of a number of strains, a vaccine has not yet been created; so, the seasonal flu vaccine will not protect you.
Scientists are, however, working on creating a vaccine against the new Swine Flu virus. This doesn’t mean that it will be immediately available for distribution. Before putting a vaccine on the market, clinical trials must be conducted to ensure the vaccine is safe and effective. This is a lengthy process that often takes several months.
What do I do if I think I am getting ill?
If you are sick with the above symptoms it is very important that you go to your doctor to be checked out, and stay home from work until you are well. Generally if you have the flu, telling you to stay home should not be an issue…most people with the flu of any type are sick enough that “working through it” (like you may have done in the past with a cold) is not an option. When you should see a doctor is really your call. If you have flu symptoms, and you’ve been to a high risk area such as Mexico, you should see a doctor immediately.
If I go to the doctor is there anything he can do for me?
Yes. In order to determine if you have Swine Flu, you’ll need to have samples taken and sent to a lab. Antiviral treatment for confirmed or suspected ill cases of swine influenza is available. Antiviral treatment is most effective the earlier it is initiated after the onset of symptoms. So don’t wait until you have been sick for 3 days before you go to the doctor! The antivirals (Tamiflu or Relenza) may greatly reduce the time that you are actually ill with the flu.
Why is the flu so dangerous?
Most people who get influenza will recover in a few days to less than 2 weeks, but some people will develop life-threatening complications (such as pneumonia) as a result of the flu. Anyone can get the flu (even healthy people), and serious problems from influenza can happen at any age.
People age 65 years and older, people of any age with chronic medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease), pregnant women, and young children are more likely to get complications from influenza. Pneumonia, bronchitis, and sinus and ear infections are examples of complications from flu. The flu can make chronic health problems worse.
What can I do if family members become ill with the flu? How do I care for them at home?
- Check with their health care provider about any special care they may need if they are pregnant, or have a health condition such as diabetes, heart disease, asthma or emphysema.
- Check with their health care provider about whether they should take antiviral medications. Encourage them to stay home for 7 days after the start of the illness. However, if fever remains after 7 days, they should continue to stay home until the fever is gone.
- Get plenty of rest.
- Drink clear non-alcoholic fluids.
- Cover their mouth with tissue or inside of elbow when coughing or sneezing.
- Avoid close contact with others — do not go to work or school while ill.
- Call the family member's health care provider with any other concerns during the course of the illness.
Can I still eat pork, or will this cause Swine Flu?
You can’t get Swine Flu by eating pork, bacon or other foods deriving from pigs.
How can I stay up to date with information regarding the swine flu?
For more information and Swine Flu facts, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Swine Flu Website or New York State Department of Health Website
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