The Definition Of Swine Flu Influenza, By Mayo Clinic staff

Novel H1N1 flu, popularly known as swine flu, is a
respiratory infection caused by an influenza virus first
recognized in spring 2009. The new virus, which is
officially called swine influenza A (H1N1), contains
genetic material from human, swine and avian flu viruses.

Technically, the term “swine flu” refers to influenza
in pigs. Occasionally, pigs transmit influenza viruses to
people, mainly hog farm workers and veterinarians. Less
often, someone infected occupationally passes the
infection to others. You can’t catch swine flu from
eating pork.

Unlike typical swine flu, H1N1 flu spreads quickly and
easily. In June 2009, when the infection’s spread had
been verified worldwide, the World Health Organization
declared H1N1 flu a global pandemic.

An H1N1 vaccine has been developed for the 2009-10 flu
season.

Novel H1N1 flu, popularly known as swine flu, is a
respiratory infection caused by an influenza virus first
recognized in spring 2009. The new virus, which is
officially called swine influenza A (H1N1), contains
genetic material from human, swine and avian flu viruses.

Technically, the term “swine flu” refers to influenza
in pigs. Occasionally, pigs transmit influenza viruses to
people, mainly hog farm workers and veterinarians. Less
often, someone infected occupationally passes the
infection to others. You can’t catch swine flu from
eating pork.

Unlike typical swine flu, H1N1 flu spreads quickly and
easily. In June 2009, when the infection’s spread had
been verified worldwide, the World Health Organization
declared H1N1 flu a global pandemic.

An H1N1 vaccine has been developed for the 2009-10 flu
season Symptoms

Swine flu symptoms in humans are similar to those of
infection with other flu strains:

·  Fever

·  Cough

·  Sore throat

·  Body aches

·  Headache

·  Chills

·  Fatigue

·  Diarrhea

·  Vomiting

Swine flu symptoms develop three to five days after
you’re exposed to the virus and continue for about eight
days, starting one day before you get sick and continuing
until you’ve recovered.

When to see a doctor.

It’s not necessary to call a doctor if you’re generally
healthy and you develop swine flu symptoms, such as
fever, cough and body aches. Do call your doctor,
however, if you have flu symptoms and you’re pregnant or
you have a chronic disease, such as emphysema or a heart
condition.

Causes.

Influenza viruses infect the cells lining your nose,
throat and lungs. The virus enters your body when you
inhale contaminated droplets or transfer live virus from
a contaminated surface to your eyes, nose or mouth on
your hand.

Risk factors.

Because novel H1N1 virus is new, everyone is at some
risk. Health care workers who provide direct patient care
are at particular risk of catching H1N1 flu. College
students and children in school and child care are also
at high risk. Children typically pick up the virus in the
classroom and pass it to other members of the household.

When Travelling.

-  inform yourself about this illness and if your
Insurance Co. covers your Medical Expenses when
travelling

-  take with you basic first aid and other medical
supplies – be aware of local medical announcements

-  follow recommendations of how to prevent/restrict
influenza – wash your hands thoroughly and frequently

-  sneeze into your sleeve at the elbow area to avoid
spreading

-  cover your mouth with Kleenex when coughing

-  do not touch your eyes, nose and mouth

-  keep distance from sick people

-  if if get ill contact your consulate

–  they are going to help you to contact a physician and
they will be informed of your presence in that country

-  when you return home monitor your health about first 10
days

-  call your doctor if you have the symptoms of the
influenza known as grippe and flu, which is upper
respiratory disease also known as swine flu.

Vaccine

Vacccine is available and recommended but there many
professionals and individuals who do not share this
recommendation.

For best results, when in doubt, consult a professional
– YOU would be glad you did.

Olga O’Mara