Swine Flu Epidemic Scare Grips The World!
Swine
First it was SARS, then it was the Bird Flu and now its the deadly Swine Flu. The world, it seems, can never be a safe place to live in. The outbreak of the Swine Flu, or the Mexican Flu (referring to the origin of the epidemic) has already claimed 9 deaths, and there are another 168 deaths are suspected to be caused by the swine influenza virus (SIV). Also, there are around 3500 suspected cases across the globe. So, here are a few FAQs on the topic that will help you understand things clearly and get you to know everything about the Swine Flu.
What is The Swine Flu?
Swine flu otherwise also known as the pig flu/hog flu. Transmission of swine influenza virus from pigs to humans is not common. However, the latest strain of this virus is the 2009 H1N1 transmits itself from human to human. The origin of this new strain is unknown. But generally people working with intense exposure to pigs are at risk of the Swine Flu.
What are the symptoms of Swine Flu?
This 2009 H1N1 strain causes the normal symptoms of influenza, such as fever, coughing and headache. It also causes psychological symptoms such as Lack of appetite and lethargy. Some other symptoms include Diarrhea.
How can Swine Flu be prevented?
Collectively, it is important to follow these points:
- Use of face mask and gloves when dealing with animals
- Frequent washing of hands (Alcohol-based gel or foam hand sanitizers work well to destroy viruses and bacteria)
- Staying away from other people who might be infected and lying-low if your community is infected
- The currently available vaccine is unlikely to provide protection to the 2009 H1N1 strain, the vaccines against this new strain are being developed and should be available by June, 2009.
How can Swine Flu be treated?
Swine Flu can be treated like treating other norman influenza. Ativiral drugs can make the illness milder and make the patient feel better faster. These work best if taken within two days of being infected i.e. when symptoms show.
What are the previous notable outbreaks?
- 1918 pandemic in humans
- 1976 US Outbreak
- 1998 US Outbreak in Pigs
- 2007 Philippine Outbreak in Pigs
- 2009 (Current) Outbreak in Humans
