Swan flu? No need to scare, take preventive measures!

What is swine flu?

Swan flu is also known as swine flu. Swine flu (swine influenza) is a disease of pigs. It is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by one of much Influenza A H1N1 virus.

Causes of swan flu:

It is caused by influenza type A H1N1 virus.

Symptoms of Swine flu:

The symptoms of swan flu are almost similar to seasonal influenza in humans. People suffering from swan flu may have following symptoms.

       Body aches

       Severe chills

       Cough

       Fatigue

       High Fever

       Headache

       Loss of appetite

       Sore throat

Symptoms can vary from mild to severe. In some cases, severe complications such as pneumonia and respiratory failure can cause death.

Diagnosing Swan flu virus H1N1:

Swan flu is identified by laboratory tests by the doctors.

How does it spread?

Transmission of swine flu virus is not crystal clear. But it is believed that the swan flu virus spreads through the same way as seasonal influenza. It transmits from person to person when the virus enters the body through the eyes, nose, mouth when coughing and sneezing. If an infected person touches any surface, virus gets attached to that surface. When a healthy person touches these surfaces, he/ she may be infected.

How dangerous is it?

 If above mentioned symptoms are seen in any one he/ she must consult a doctor immediately and get its test. Negligence may be dangerous.

What preventive measures should be taken?

We know that “Prevention is better than cure”. Now swan flu is the worldwide disease. India is at high risk.  So, we must take preventive measures to avoid this disease.

       Avoid travelling of the region or areas where swan flu patients are there in large number.

       Avoid big gathered public places where swan flu patients have been identified.

       Cover your mouth and nose with a mask specially designed for this. If masks are not available then use clean handkerchief.

       Use full sleeve clothes to avoid exposure of H1N1 virus.

       Use boiled water for drinking.

       Use luke warm milk.

       Avoid close contact with people who are sick and who have symptoms of H1N1 flu.

       Wash your hands with soap and water frequently and thoroughly.

       Practice good health habits such as getting enough sleep, eating a nutritious diet, and staying physically active.

       Immediately consult to your doctor if you see any symptoms of swan flu.

       Rest and drink plenty of fluids.

       Keep the children away from a patient suffering from swan flu.

       In case of detection of swan flu, follow doctors’ advice.