How To Prevent Catching Swine Flu

The threat of a pandemic is sweeping the world, through a new strain of swine flu. Many deaths have been recorded in Mexico. Several other countries also have suspect cases reported, from as far apart as France, Hong Kong, Canada, Israel and New Zealand.

Caused by type A influenza Swine flu, is a respiratory disease. Studies have shown that the swine flu H1N1 is common throughout pig populations worldwide, with 25% of all animals displaying antibody evidence of having the disease.

Swine flu viruses do not usually affect human beings. However, the current swine flu has a deadly mixture of a gene segment from bird flu, a segment from human flu, plus two genes from pig flu. Pigs are known to be the world's best 'mixing bowls'. This totally unknown virus is causing extreme concern, as humans have no immunity to the disease.

Swine flu can't be contacted through eating pork products, however human-to-human infections are happening, without the victims having any contact with infected animals.

Here are simple precautions you need to use to provide self-protection against the threatened pandemic:

* Make sure you cover your nose and mouth if you sneeze or cough. Ensure you get rid of the tissue in the rubbish can after you use it. Keep a mask handy in case anyone sneezes or coughs around you.

Just one sneeze thrusts 100,000 droplets into the air at around 90 mph, landing on everything around you. British researchers have found that in a subway train during rush hour, as many as 10% of all commuters can come in contact with the spray and residue from just one sneeze. 150 commuters may become ill from one uncovered sneeze, or cough. The rush of air from a cough travels at speeds of nearly 600 mph.

* Always wash your hands frequently, for up to 20 seconds, with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Always wash your hands thoroughly prior to eating and whenever possible do not eat with your hands.

It is estimated over 80% of all infections are spread by hands. If you are not able to wash your hands, resort to using hand-sanitizers with 60% alcohol content. These are available in handy pocket size containers.

* Attempt to avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth and definitely avoid kissing on the cheeks.

Germs are passed more quickly that way than any other method of transmission.

* Try to stay away from sick people. Isolation and keeping your distance are your most efficient protective measures.
* If you get sick, stay home from work or school and limit contact with other people, to keep them from becoming infected.
* Keep aware and recognize any abnormal symptoms. If you are in doubt, go and seek professional advice.

* Make sure you eat well, be careful of your sleep habits and take regular exercise. Increase your daily dose of vitamin C and practice good hygiene.

Swine flu can be treated. Though it is resistant to two of the four drugs approved for treating flu, two new arrivals, Tamiflu and Relenza have proven to be successful.

Mexico houses hundreds of industrial-scale hog facilities, known as 'confined animal feeding operations', where pigs are packed tightly in rows. Thousands of pigs are confined to indoor pens and grain-fed for market. Breeding sows are held in small metal crates where they spend the major part of their lives pregnant, or feeding a new litter of piglets. Up until now, Mexican hog workers, infected with swine flu, have rarely been the cause of infecting other humans, except for close family members.

Swıne Flu | Wıll ıt have an end?

Swine flu refers to influenza caused by those strains of influenza virus that usually infect pigs and are called swine influenza virus (SIV). Swine influenza is common in pigs in the M?d-West of the United States and some other states, Mexico, Canada, South America, Europe, Kenya, Mainland China, Taiwan, Japan and other parts of eastern Asia.

Transmission of swine influenza virus from pigs to humans is not common and properly-cooked pork poses no risk of infection. When transmitted, it does not always cause human influenza and often the only sign of infection is the presence of antibodies in the blood which are only detectable by laboratory tests. When transmission results in influenza in a human, it is called zoonotic swine flu. People who work with pigs, especially people with intense exposures, are at risk of catching swine flu. However, only about fifty such transmissions have been recorded since the mid-20th Century, when identification of influenza subtypes became possible. Rarely, these strains of swine flu can pass from human to human. In humans, the symptoms of swine flu are similar to those of influenza and of influenza-like illness in general, namely chills, fever, sore throat, muscle pains, severe headache, coughing, weakness and general discomfort.

The 2009 flu outbreak in humans, known as "swine flu", is due to an apparently virulent new strain of influenza A virus subtype H1N1 that contained many genetic elements normally found in swine influenza. The origin of this new strain is unknown, and the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) reports that this strain has not been isolated in pigs. It can be transmitted from human to human, an ability attributed to an as-yet unidentified mutation. This 2009 H1N1 strain causes the normal symptoms of influenza, such as fever, coughing and headache.

The 2009 flu outbreak is due to a new strain of influenza, an apparent reassortment of at least four strains of influenza A virus subtype H1N1, including one strain endemic in humans, one endemic in birds, and two endemic in swine. Although initial reports identified the new strain as swine influenza (ie, a zoonosis), its origin is unknown. Several countries took precautionary measures to reduce the chances for a global pandemic of the disease.

This new strain had not previously been reported in pigs. On May 2, 2009, H1N1 was reported in pigs at a farm in Alberta, Canada, with a link to the 2009 swine flu outbreak in Mexico. The pigs are suspected to have caught this new strain of virus from a farm worker who recently travelled to Mexico, then showed symptoms of an influenza-like illness. These are probable cases, pending confirmation by laboratory testing.

The time and location of the outbreak is still unknown, but it was first detected in two cases in Southern California in late March. When this novel virus was publicized, officials in Mexico suspected a link to an outbreak of late-season flu cases they were finding. Mexican news media report that the outbreak may have started in February near a Smithfield Foods pig plant amid complaints about its intensive farming practices. Within days, hundreds more suspected cases were discovered in Mexico, with more cases also showing up in the U.S. and several other countries. By late April, officials from the U.N.'s World Health Organization (WHO), based in Switzerland, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the U.S., were expressing serious concern about the flu outbreak, worried that it might become a worldwide flu pandemic.

The new strain has spread widely beyond Mexico and the U.S., with confirmed cases in eighteen countries and suspected cases in forty-two. Many countries have advised their inhabitants not to travel to infected areas. Countries including Australia, China, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea and Thailand are monitoring visitors returning from flu-affected areas to identify people with fever and respiratory symptoms. Many countries have also issued warnings to visitors of flu-affected areas to contact a doctor immediately if they had flu-like symptoms.

Mexico's schools, universities, and all public events will be closed from April 24, 2009 to May 6, 2009. By May 3, 2009, more than 400 schools in the U.S. closed due to confirmed or probable cases in students or staff, affecting 250,000 students

By April 28, the new strain was confirmed to have spread to Spain, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and Israel, and the virus was suspected in many other nations. As a result, WHO raised its alert level to "Phase 5" out of 6 possible, which it defines as a "signal that a pandemic is imminent" By the end of April, 300 schools had closed across the United States and the Mexican government ordered a multi-day shutdown of all non-essential activities in the government and private sector, amounting to a shutdown of most of the country's economy. At the same time, however, many scientists were reaching a consensus that the epidemic was so far "relatively mild," and believed that it could be less fatal than previous pandemics.

The new strain is an apparent reassortment of four strains of influenza A virus subtype H1N1. Analysis by the CDC identified the four component strains as one endemic in humans, one endemic in birds, and two endemic in pigs (swine). However, other scientists have stated that analyses of the 2009 swine flu (A/H1N1) viral genome "suggests that all segments are of swine origin", "we are puzzled about sources of information that affirm that the virus is a reassortment of avian, human and swine viruses," and "this preliminary analysis suggests at least two swine ancestors to the current H1N1, one of them related to the triple resorting viruses isolated in North America in 1998." One swine strain was widespread in the United States, the other in Eurasia. Worldwide the common human H1N1 influenza virus affects millions of people every year, according to WHO officials, and "these annual epidemics result in about three to five million cases of severe illness, and about 250,000 to 500,000 deaths" annually. In industrialized countries most of these annual deaths occur in people aged 65 or older. By May 2, some pigs in Canada were diagnosed with H1N1. Although some influenza strains can spread between species, the influenza virus is killed by normal cooking procedures, so there is no risk of infection from consumption of well-cooked pork and pork products.

Recommendations to prevent infection by the virus consist of the standard personal precautions against influenza. This includes frequent washing of hands with soap and water or with alcohol-based hand sanitizers, especially after being out in public. The CDC advises not touching the mouth, nose or eyes, as these are primary modes of transmission. When coughing, they recommend coughing into a tissue and disposing of the tissue, then immediately washing the hands.

Of the available antiviral treatments for influenza, the WHO stated that the viruses obtained from the human cases with swine influenza in the United States were sensitive to oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and zanamivir (Relenza) but resistant to amantadine and rimantadine. Tamiflu and Relenza also have a preventative effect against Influenzavirus A. On April 27, the CDC recommended the use of Tamiflu and Relenza for both treatment and prevention of the new strain. Roche and the U.S. government had already extended the shelf life of federally stockpiled Tamiflu from the original five years to seven years because studies indicated that the medication continues to maintain its effectiveness.

Source : www.articlebase.com

7 NATURAL WAYS TO HELP YOURSELF FROM SWINE FLU

Although Gordon Brown assures us Britain is well prepared to deal with an outbreak of Swine Flu, I am always happier to take proactive action myself and there are some simple measures we can all take. They are not guaranteed to prevent you getting it, but they will certainly help.

The symptoms are of course very similar to any other flu you might experience: fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, chills and fatigue so report to your doctor if you have these. However, what you also need to do is focus on strengthening your own immune response to prevent infection getting a hold and developing.

1 This time of year I usually have stopped taking Echinacea, but it is my first port of call to build up my defences and if you can get Echinacea tincture that is the most effective in my opinion. Boots produce their own and there is an excellent one made by Bioforce from helath stores. Take it daily for three weeks then a week off.

2 Next increase the amount of vitamin C you are taking, at least 1 gram a day in two 500mg doses is the most effective. Have as natural and unprocessed diet as you can, and juicing your fruit and vegetables gets you the maximum vitamins from them.

3 Your body requires oxygen for every cell to function properly because viruses can neither survive nor thrive in it. Therefore, the best defence against microbes, germs, harmful bacteria and viruses, such as the swine influenza virus, is to keep the body oxygenated. Add in eggs to your diet as they are excellent for improving your oxygen absorption. See the healthy bites item on eggs below.

4 Are you breathing deeply enough? Shallow breathing will not bring enough oxygen into so your system, and being out in the fresh air every day is a must. Walking at a moderate pace while breathing in for a count of six, and out for a count of six, is one of the simplest ways to do this. If you find a count of six difficult, reduce it to four, or if it becomes easy increase to six or eight.

5 Limit foods and substances that stress the body such as sugar, caffeine, alcohol, smoking, too much red meat and processed foods high in saturated and hydrogenated fats.

6 Increase your intake of green tea, and reduce coffee and tea. Green tea will really help as its antixodants will boost your immune system. Add some lemon to it and you get extra vitamin C as well.

7 Finally, go back to basic hygiene and wash your hands in hot soapy water frequently and carry hand gel when you are out and use it after contact with others such as a handshake – and contact in public places with stair rails, lift buttons and so on.

It may all seem like a nonsense, but people have died from not taking this seriously. The good habits outlined here will help protect you, and if you maintain them you will have a solid barrier to prevent future infection.

Swine Flu | Video of Dr. Joe Bresee with the CDC Influenza Division describes swine flu

Watch video Dr. Joe Bresee (CDC) about H1N1 (Swine Flu)- its signs and symptoms, how it's transmitted, medicines to treat it, steps people can take to protect themselves from it, and what people should do if they become ill | Tags : swine flu symptoms,swine flu vaccine,swine flu parties,swine flu deaths spanish flu,swine flu debacle 1976,bird flu,sars,Dr. Joe Bresee

How to prevent swine flu

Keywords : Pandemic, Swine Flu, Swine Influenza, H1N1 | Author : Kesja Plecha | Source : www.articlesbase.com

Wash your hands

Basic way of preventing getting infected is washing your hands frequently, especially after coughing or sneezing. You can use soap and water, alcohol-based hand sanitizers are also effective. Hand sanitizers can be used when water isn't available.

Don't touch your eyes, nose or mouth

Germs spread when you touch your eyes, nose or mouth after touching something that's contaminated.

Avoid close contact with sick people

If possible, avoid contact with possibly infected people. Avoid crowds. Swine flu spreads mainly when people cough or sneeze.

Avoid travel

Try to limit traveling, especially to high risk areas such as Mexico. If you've been to Mexico and have flu like symptoms visit a doctor.

Wear facemask or respirator

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends wearing facemask in crowded settings to prevent getting infected and to not infect others. Respirator should be used if you have close contact with infected person (for example you're caring of sick person at home).

Antiviral drugs

Swine influenza A (H1N1) is sensitive to Oseltamivir (sold under name Tamiflu) and Zanamivir (sold as Relenza). They are effective means of swine flu prevention and treatment. If taken for treatment, Tamiflu and Relenza are most effective if taken within 2 days after illness started. They are also effective for prevention if given to healthy person that had contact with infected people. Antiviral drugs are 70% to 90% effective means of flu prevention. According to CDC, number of days they should be used to prevent H1N1 influenza varies depending on each person's situation.

Vaccine

Influenza A (H1N1) vaccine isn't available yet, WHO and CDC are working on it.

Stay home if you feel sick

CDC recommends to stay at home for 7 days after symptoms begin or until you are symptom-free for 24 hours to not spread infection further.

Take care of your health

Sleep well, be active, manage stress, drink lots of fluids, eat healthy. This strengthens your immune system.

Triage! Will You Be Denied Treatment for Swine Flu?

Keywords : swine flu, pig flu, swine influenza, pig influenza, enfluenza, enfluensa | Author : Lynne Gordon | Source : www.articlesbase.com

While it may sound like something out of a bad sci-fi movie, it has become our reality. US doctors, in accordance with WHO regulations, have drafted a document deciding who will live and who will be allowed to die when the Swine Flu Pandemic strikes the greater part of North America.

Once Swine Flu has America in its death grip, medical care -- including everything from vaccines to respirators to doctors and nurses themselves -- will become scarce. So a task force of members from prestigious universities, medical groups, and government agencies (the Department of Homeland Security, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Department of Health and Human Services, and World Health Organization) has compiled a list of people who would not be treated.

Those of us most affected by this decision can easily see this as an attempt to "play God" on the part of these doctors who so willingly ignore their Hippocratic oaths, but Dr. Asha Devereaux, a critical care specialist and lead writer of the task force report, called the guidelines a "blueprint for hospitals so that everybody will be thinking in the same way."

It's being recommended that every hospital choose a triage team to decide who will get lifesaving treatment and who will not, but the guidelines already spells out those who will be denied care. They include:


People older than 85

People with severe trauma, such as critical injuries from car crashes and shootings

Severely burned patients older than 60

People with severe mental impairment, such as advanced Alzheimer's disease

People with severe chronic disease, such as advanced heart failure, lung disease or poorly controlled diabetes

Others who are at a high risk of death or have a low chance of long-term survival would also be unlikely to receive medical care.

The guidelines will clearly violate laws against age discrimination and disability discrimination, according to public health law expert Lawrence Gostin of Georgetown University. Gostin also called the report "a political and legal minefield."

Though most experts acknowledge that health care will, in fact, need to be rationed once Swine Flu infections begin, the current list will basically single out the poor blacks, Mexicans, homosexuals, non-English-speaking peoples and any others who are generally considered as undesirables in America. Because in addition to this list, the triage team will, at its discretion, decide on millions of others who will be arbitrarily denied medical treatment.

As for when the guidelines will be enforced, members of the task force said it's only a matter of time. Phase Five Pandemic Alert means that a pandemic with millions infected, dead, and dying is imminent. It WILL happen!

According to Secretary Michael O. Leavitt, Department of Health and Human Services:

"Forty million people died when the last major influenza pandemic swept around the world in 1918. We have seen two less severe pandemics since then. We will no doubt see another sometime in the future.

We don't know when, and we don't know how bad it will be. But we know it will happen sooner or later and that what we do now will save lives - maybe millions of lives - in the future."

How did this happen? How did we get to the point where we allowed an engineered virus to be released onto an unsuspecting population - then in the face of imminent death - we are being told that our job is to die.

Don't allow this fate to happen to your family. The triage experience will not be just about the color of your skin. You may be denied treatment just because someone doesn't like you or in your haste to get treatment for your loved one, you may become momentarily rude.

Any little thing can mean life or death for someone you love.

Protect your family today before it is too late.

Sneaked into Hong Kong- Swine Flu

Keywords : Flu, Swine Flu, Swine Influenza, Clinical Symptoms Of Swine Flu, Swine Flu In Hong Kong, Metropark Hotel, Swine Flu Mexico | Author : Shashwith Uthappa | Source : www.articlesbase.com

Yes, you must’ve heard it already. Spine Flu is no more a virgin word. It’s caused by spine influenza virus that usually affects pigs. However, the new swine flu having prospective ecumenical affects is a new strain of virus, H1N1 strain, A type, containing genes of the swine influenza.

News is spreading like wild fire with warning that the swine flu can be transmitted via aerial droplets, for example when sneezing, or via saliva or feces. Clinical symptoms generally seen are: fever, widespread pain, fatigue, nose catarrh and cough.

There have been cases in Mexico reported to have human-to-human transmission. Although many countries have been controlling airplanes to stop the virus from turning into an epidemic, there was a 25 year old man tested positive in Hong Kong recently.

Although it was said that the virus might not touch Asia, Hong Kong has gone frantic with its attempts to isolate the person affected and give him appropriate treatment. They have actually tried tracking down every person who possibly had contact with the man while his travel from Mexico via Shanghai.

There were two taxi drivers who assisted the Mexican and if they are infected and they don’t appear, there shall be bad consequences. It’s a critical time in Hong Kong.

The attendants in the hotels where the Mexican was staying were quarantined for seven days. It is however an international joke that the Metropark hotel has been locked up even though most people in the hotel have not even contacted with the infected man and overseas tourist are under vigilance for seven days.

China is soon to suspend all flights from Mexico to avoid further prospective infects. These frenetic preventive steps are because they’ve been through a painful epidemic with painful nostalgia carrying it, the SARS breakout which had taken away many innocent lives in its vicious circle.

Gearing up to fight the disease with facial masks in restaurants and on public transport, the spirit of the city hasn’t dampened as it hasn’t canceled any concerts and shows that are scheduled to happen in Hong Kong. Prevention is surely better than cure, but there isn’t any harm having fun while prevention. Don’t you think?

Swine Flu Prevention

Keywords : Swine Flu, Swine Influenza, Swine Flu Symptoms, Swine Flu Deaths | Author : Nathan | Source : www.articlesbase.com

There is a lot of anxiety among our society concerning the Swine Flu. It wouldn't be my personal preference to catch the illness because it seems to give a hard swift punishment to the victim. This strain can carry morph into any one of the three strains of influenza. Pigs do carry influenza viruses and can adapt or morph in humans. The swine flu can also change to infect birds, causing the strain to switch genes and create a pandemic.

Like any type of new illness there are precautions people can take to prevent infection and the spread of the Swine Flu. It natural for people to cough directly into their hands. All the germs coming from the reparatory system are transported from the internal body and passed along to places, like car keys, door knobs, drinking fountains, and door handles. This can devastate the main population if one is carrying the actual Swine Flu. Create a habit of coughing into your shoulder or into your arm to minimize the spread of all germs and not just the Swine Flu.

At night it would be favorable to spray Lysol spray on light switches, toilet seats, toilet handles, freezer and fridge handles to kill the Swine flu and other bacteria. Lysol is a powerful deterrent to assist in the spread of germs, and illness. Pump bottles of hand sanitizer will help kill the germs on the surface of the skin and can assist in preventing the spread of the Swine flu. But there is a more advanced and preferred method to preventing the spread of Swine Flu.

We have been taught from an early age to wash our hands. Many take for granted the hand washing philosophy. The truth is that Lysol, hand sanitizer, coughing into the arm are all good ways but a good solid deep hand wash is the number one method for preventing the spread of germs. Hand sanitizer, and Lysol only kill the surface of where these items are applied. A deep hand wash bypasses the surface of the skin and really digs down to the grooves and pits of the hand. Ridges within the hand can be microscopic and hard to get reach for the Lysol, and hand sanitizer. A good hefty dose of liquid soap will grind down to the microscopic ridges and pours in the hand and do real damage to destroy the Swine Flu.

Swine Flu Emergency Food Supplies

Keywords : Swine Flu Emergency Food Supplies, Swine Flu Food Supplies, Swine Flu Preparation, Swine Flu Emergency Advice | Author : Joshua Mintz | Source : www.articlesbase.com

Medical experts watching the Swine Flu tell us that once the flu is detected in an area, the entire community can be QUARANTINED for 6 to 12 weeks, the normal time for the Swine Flu to run its course, IF no further outbreaks are detected.

The "Swine 90 DAY FOOD SUPPLY" unit is compact enough to fit under most large beds, or stow in a large closet. It's ideal for homes, apartments, businesses, emergency operation centers, etc.

Swine Flu Emergency Readiness Kit

Being prepared for all types of emergencies should be a priority for everyone in the U.S. With more threats than ever before, we know that any number of events can be right around the corner. But lately its completely understandable that many of us probably have our mind on economic worries at the very least. But knowing what we do know about the swine Flu break out, it might be a good time for us to consider investing in our own safety just in case.

As of now there are over 1,000 deaths in the country of Mexico. Granted we are not Mexico, and we do have an outstanding heads up on the current situation, that doesnt mean that we shouldnt take precaution anyways.

But a bigger point can be made - We should be ready for any other crisis that could happen, even if the Swine Flu stays contained.

Swine Flu preparation should be just one state of preparation we should be concerned with. I would say that this Swine Flu problem should be at the least, a wake up call. Preparing for this could end up saving us in the future. If we take action now, and nothing too serious comes of the Swine Flu virus, than we will still be prepared for any future occurences that could happen.

But just because we have caught this virus earlier than Mexico, doesnt mean its going to be O.K. Honestly, we are right nesxt door to the country, and we havnt done a great job of keeping Mexican immigrants out of our country in the past. And it only takes 1 unknowing victim to spread the Swine Flu virus to a large group of unsuspecting colleagues , classmates, or total strangers in a supermarket.

I am definitely not trying to be someone that tries to scare people, but whenever a society takes something like this too lightly , things can spiral out of control in the blink of an eye. It is our responsibility to take stock of situations like these and make honest assesments.

In the coming weeks we will know for sure if the Swine Flu will become epidemic, pandemic, or nothing more than a slight outbreak. I hope that its the latter. But I really hope that we are all prepared for anything and everything.

Swine Flu Facts

Keywords : Swine Flu, Swine Influenza, Swine Flu Symptoms, Swine Flu Facts, Facts About Swine Flu, How Is The Swine Flu Transmitted, Swine Flu Epidemic, Swine Flu Info, Swine Flu Outbreak, Type A H1N1 Swine Influenza Virus, Swine Flu Myths And Facts, Swine Flu News | Author : Eric Kampel | Source : www.articlesbase.com


Swine influenza – Swine influenza or swine flu is a respiratory disease in pigs caused by the type A H1N1 swine influenza virus (SIV). Humans in close proximity to swine could contract swine influenza if the swine are carrying the rare strain of the SIV that is capable of affecting humans.

Symptoms – Swine flu symptoms in humans are generally similar to regular flu (influenza) symptoms and include muscle pain, runny nose, sore throat, cough, headache, lack of appetite, fever, chills, and general weakness and discomfort. Other reported symptoms are nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

Transmission – Swine flu spreads from pigs to humans when humans are close to infected pigs. People working in barns or visiting livestock exhibits housing infected pigs are likely to get affected. Transmission from humans to humans can occur when the infected individual coughs or sneezes when others are close by. Putting one’s hands to the nose or mouth after touching anything with the flu viruses on it could also spread the infection. Consuming well-cooked pork and pork products won’t cause infection as cooking to an internal temperature of 160°F kills bacteria and viruses, including the swine flu virus.

Treatment and medication – While swine flu can generally be cured by the four antiviral drugs approved for curing flu in the US, amantadine, rimantadine, oseltamivir and zanamivir, the recent 2009 swine flu outbreak viruses have been found to be resistant to the first two drugs. Oseltamivir and zanamivir are now recommended for treatment and prevention of swine influenza.

Prevention – Swine flu can be prevented by taking certain precautionary measures, such as washing hands frequently with soap or an alcohol-based hand wash. Staying away from infected individuals is important as their coughing or sneezing could spread the infection. If instances of infection are reported in your locality, stay indoors as far as possible. Swine flue vaccine could be out by June 2009.

General Swine Flu Influenza Information You Need To Know

Keywords : swine flu, swine influenza, influenza, epidemic, flu, disease | Author : Kristi Nunez | Source: www.directorys.uniquearticles.info

The American Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued information regarding the recent outbreak of Swine Flu. The best defense for both yourself as well as for your family and loved ones, is knowledge about this threat.

What is swine flu?

Swine Influenza (swine flu) is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses. Outbreaks of swine flu happen regularly in pigs. People do not normally get swine flu, but human infections can and do happen. Most commonly, human cases of swine flu happen in people who are around pigs but it's possible for swine flu viruses to spread from person to person also.

Are there human infections with swine flu in the U.S.?

In late March and early April 2009, cases of human infection with swine influenza A (H1N1) viruses were first reported in Southern California and near San Antonio, Texas. CDC and local and state health agencies are working together to investigate this situation.

Is this swine flu virus contagious?

CDC has determined that this virus is contagious and is spreading from human to human. However, at this time, it not known how easily the virus spreads between people.

What are the signs and symptoms of swine flu in people?

The symptoms of swine flu in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with swine flu. In the past, severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and deaths have been reported with swine flu infection in people. Like seasonal flu, swine flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.

How serious is swine flu infection?

Like seasonal flu, swine flu in humans can vary in severity from mild to severe. Between 2005 until January 2009, 12 human cases of swine flu were detected in the U.S. with no deaths occurring. However, swine flu infection can be serious. In September 1988, a previously healthy 32-year-old pregnant woman in Wisconsin was hospitalized for pneumonia after being infected with swine flu and died 8 days later. A swine flu outbreak in Fort Dix, New Jersey occurred in 1976 that caused more than 200 cases with serious illness in several people and one death.

How do you catch swine flu?

Spread of swine flu can occur in two ways:

Through contact with infected pigs or environments contaminated with swine flu viruses.

Through contact with a person with swine flu. Human-to-human spread of swine flu has been documented also and is thought to occur in the same way as seasonal flu. Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people.

Are there medicines to treat swine flu?

Yes. CDC recommends the use of oseltamivir or zanamivir for the treatment and/or prevention of infection with these swine influenza viruses. Antiviral drugs are prescription medicines (pills, liquid or an inhaler) that fight against the flu by keeping flu viruses from reproducing in your body. If you get sick, antiviral drugs can make your illness milder and make you feel better faster. They may also prevent serious flu complications. For treatment, antiviral drugs work best if started soon after getting sick (within 2 days of symptoms).

How long can an infected person spread swine flu to others?
People with swine influenza virus infection should be considered potentially contagious as long as they are symptomatic and possible for up to 7 days following illness onset. Children, especially younger children, might potentially be contagious for longer periods.

What can I do to protect myself from getting sick?

There is no vaccine available right now to protect against swine flu. There are everyday actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza. Take these everyday steps to protect your health:

Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.

Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are
also effective.

Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

If you get sick with influenza, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread
this way.

What should I do if I get sick?

If you live in San Diego County or Imperial County California or Guadalupe County, Texas and become ill with influenza-like symptoms, including fever, body aches, runny nose, sore throat, nausea, or vomiting or diarrhea, you may want to contact their health care provider, particularly if you are worried about your symptoms. Your health care provider will determine whether influenza testing or treatment is needed.

If you are sick, you should stay home and avoid contact with other people as much as possible to keep from spreading your illness to others.

If you become ill and experience any of the following warning signs, seek emergency medical care.

In children emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:
* Fast breathing or trouble breathing
* Bluish skin color
* Not drinking enough fluids
* Not waking up or not interacting
* Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
* Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough
* Fever with a rash

In adults, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:
* Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
* Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
* Sudden dizziness
* Confusion
* Severe or persistent vomiting

Can I get swine influenza from eating or preparing pork?

No. Swine influenza viruses are not spread by food. You cannot get swine influenza from eating pork or pork products. Eating properly handled and cooked pork products is safe.



Additional health related information may be found at the information 4 health Check out General Swine Flu Influenza Information You Need To Know

Article Source: http://www.directorys.uniquearticles.info

Your Ferret and The Flu

Keywords : ferret the flu, ferret sick, ferret pneumonia, ferret chores, your ferrets, Ferrets react to the flu | Author : S Reinheart | Source : www.directorys.uniquearticles.info

Did you know that you can give your ferret the flu? Did you know it can give you the flu? And this latest version, the swine flu, is no exception. The swine flu variation is, in fact, more of a potential problem than other varieties because it passes so quickly and easily from person to person and animal to person. Right now various countries around the world are tallying their number of sick people and their number of dead from this variation that has come to be called the swine flu.

You can make your ferret sick and it can make you sick, bottom line. It’s worse for your ferret because of the possibility of it turning into ferret pneumonia, which is often fatal.

How do you tell the difference between a cold and the flu? It is often confusing, but here are the basics: a fever accompanies the flu, but not a cold, and the flu grabs you quicker than a cold does. Of course, you don’t want to give your ferret a cold either, so it’s best to play it safe and wash your hands before and after handling ferret items, don’t sneeze or cough around your ferrets, and if you’re sure you have the flu it is best to get someone else to handle your ferret chores.

Another danger to your ferrets is that this flu might become ferret pneumonia. Some of the symptoms of ferret pneumonia are:

• Nasal discharge
• Difficulty breathing
• Increased respiratory rate
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy
• Cyanosis (blue discoloration of the mucous membranes, such as the gums)
• Fever

Should you see these symptoms in your ferrets, take them to the veterinarian immediately. The prognosis is good if you get your ferret to the vet in time for treatment with antibiotics, to which they usually respond very well.

You have to be as alert and as knowledgeable as you can. The stakes are too high to just shrug it off. You can make your ferret seriously ill, and that can lead to death for your furry little buddy! Get serious: if you have the flu, go to the doctor and stay away from your ferrets. If they have the flu, get them to a vet right away before it turns into pneumonia.

Ferrets react to the flu just like humans do, and they are often used as test subjects for that very reason. The National Institute for Medical Research (NIMR), in north London, is one of only five World Health Organization centers for flu research. These scientists will receive live samples of swine flu that they can analyze and find a way to combat this latest menace. They will do their analyses in a high-level containment lab since it spreads so easily and quickly from person to person, ferret to person, and person to ferret. They will inject the swine flu virus into the ferrets and watch them as they build antibodies, just as humans do.

Hopefully their research will produce a vaccine or an antidote to help combat swine flu before it becomes a pandemic. As the old saying goes, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” and that certainly applies when trying to keep your ferrets healthy and happy.



Scott Reinheart is a ferret enthusiast and author. He resides in Centerville, MD. He spends his time teaching others how to raise and properly care for ferrets. For more tips on ferret health risks ,visit his site by clicking here .



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Swine flu out of mind, but not out of sight : MICHAEL MOORE

Keywords : florida health insurance, texas health insurance, swine flue, H1N1, flue | Author : EasyToInsureME | Source: www.directorys.uniquearticles.info

The number of cases grows daily and America has more than any other nation, but swine flu has moved off the front pages.

What happened? Is the pandemic now a non-event? Were we all worked up about nothing?

Well, no and no. There's still reason for concern. What's changed, in part, is what we know about the virus. It's not as deadly as first feared.
*
We've also moved into an investigative period where the statistics are ever interesting but not fully explanatory.


“We know so much more than we knew a month ago, but what we don't really know is how many cases there are that aren't reported,” said Ellen Leahy, director of the Missoula City-County Health Department.

That's a key figure, and one that won't ever be fully known because so many cases are mild and go unreported. Still, it's a number scientists and health officials try to pin down.

“It won't be exact, but we need it to assess the virulence of the virus and its transmissibility,” said Dr. George Risi, an infectious disease specialist in Missoula.

For instance, when the virus first emerged in Mexico, it appeared extremely deadly. But the lethality was overestimated because overall infections were severely underreported.

As researchers and health officials got a better handle on the numbers, the virus proved much less virulent, deadlier than the standard-issue flu, but not by much.

“Part of what is happening is that we all have some experience with it now,” said Leahy. “It's here, and we in the United States actually have more cases than anyone. So we have more information than we did at the start, and that makes things easier to understand.”



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Three Flu Services to Determine If You Have Swine

Keywords : pandemic,new flu,flu virus,influenza virus,flu symptom,herbal flu remedy,flu remedy, flu remedies,flu virus,bird flu,flu prevention,flue,avian flu,herbal flu remedy, flu remedy,flu remedies,flu,flu symptom,herbal flu remedy,flu remedy,flu remedies | Author : Joy Davenport | Source: www.directorys.uniquearticles.info

A lot of people are worrying about the swine flu. While it has not reached the levels of a pandemic, it is an incredibly serious flu virus that can caused fatalities if not isolated and treated in time. Most people aren't familiar with symptoms of swine flu. Proper medical treatment is therefore not pursued. That is why it is critical to have a clear understanding of three main flu symptoms of the condition.

Swine flu and traditional flue are very similar with regard to symptoms. Swine flu will become worse than the regular flu. Since it starts out in the early stages in a manner that is identical to the flu, it is ignored at first. That is why it is necessary to pay very strict attention to the symptoms and develop a feel for their worsening. Fevers, coughs, and sore throats are possible red flags. If you don't display these symptoms, you probably are not infected by the swine flu. (Also, a simple cold could easily be treated with basic flu remedies) Conversely, if the person did exhibit these conditions, the potential for the presence of the swine flu increases significantly.

If caused by myalgia, then these symptoms are more likely assoiciated with the flu. Myalgia is intense pain that causes reoccurring and ongoing muscle pain.(s). Different people will experience different levels of pain. It can be a dull aching sensation or it can be a chronic pain that can reach levels of debilitation. Regardless of the intensity of the pain, it is necessary to take it as a warning sign related to potential swine flu symptoms.

The most alarming and dangerous symptom of swine flu is Dyspnea. A person will require treatment over and above flu remedies if they are manifesting this specific symptom. The individual will need to visit an emergency as soon as possible. Dyspnea entails is a condition where a person suffers from severe labored breathing. It may be possible for one to suffer from catastrophic respiratory and heart related problems if he is dealing with shortness of breath. Swine flu may be likely when these three symptoms are present.

Let us remind you once more that these are crucial symptoms that absolutely warrant a visit to the doctor. Don't take swine flu lightly. This is the reason it is imperative to be watchful for a trio of specific flu symptoms.



A wide variety of swine flu symptoms is studied by Joy Davenport.

Be sure to check out our swine flu symptoms and updates on her site, as they are increasing a cause of concern to friends and family and get a free report now!

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Swine Flu Is An Epidemic - It Can Be Protected

Keywords : swine flu, flu, influenza, H1N1, pandemic, cold, disease, health | Author : jamessean001 | Source : www.directorys.uniquearticles.info

Swine Flu is a deadly virus disease that occurs mostly in pigs. Even though it does not affect the humans, it cannot be completely ruled. There are rare cases world wide, who are infected with swine flu. The people who have direct contact with pigs are most likely to get swine flu. And this dangerous disease is epidemic like other diseases and spreads through air, water, sneezing, coughing etc.

The symptoms of swine flu are similar to that of other flu (viral diseases). High fever, head ache, vomiting, severe cold, breathing problem and fatigue. Some people who are infected with swine flu have also complained of diarrhea. The swine flu is very dangerous one and pregnant women, children, HIV infected patients, heart patients, and cancer patients are at life threatening risk if they are infected with swine flu. Those patients need close medical care and attention immediately.

Swine flu infected person should follow some safety measures:

- Wash your hands before every meal with anti-disinfectant soap solution.
- You can avoid eating food like pork. In case you are eating pork take special care in cooking it properly and in a hygiene way.
- If you are affected with swine flu stay inside and avoid contact with others.
- Cover your mouth with tissue cloth while you go out.
- There are preventive vaccines for swine flu. Hence consult your physician if your state is infected with swine flu.

Even though swine flu is rare among humans, there are reports that many people in United States are affected with this deadly disease. Once you notice the symptoms of the flu then consult your physician immediately. There are antibacterial medicines and vaccines to prevent your whole family from swine flu. The swine flu does not spread through food. People who are infected with swine flu have serious doubt about the utensils they use. If you are a swine flu infected person then it is not necessary to throw away the spoons, forks and plates you use.

The symptoms of other human flu are also similar to that of swine flu. Hence a person with suspected swine flu should be immediately tested in the lab to know the type of flu. Early detection of swine flu can save the life of the affected person as well as the people around them.



You can download a detailed report which explains the symptoms of swine flu and how to prevent from this pandemic.

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Swine Flu How Is It Contagious? - Important Facts You Should Know

Keywords : how is the swine flu transmitted, swine flu pandemic, swine flu symptoms, swine flu update, what is swine flu | Author : Amanda Edwards | Source : www.directorys.uniquearticles.info

You might bear in mind that knowledge of swine flu and how it is caught is one dependable routine for preventing becomming infected by the virus.

These days it seems to be all we hear about on the sunrise news, lunchtime and evening news. Swine flu it seems is hear to stay and dominating news papers worldwide. Regarding the swine flu symptoms being extremely contagious schools many schools have closed to try to stop the virus from spreading even more.

This makes sure that you are receiving a factual swine flu update on a regular basis – even daily – basis will help to decrease widespread panic and fear.
It is definately sensible to be knowledgeable about swine flu and preventative measures that you can take.

When you have finished reading through this article you will understand some important facts regarding swine flu and also tips to help you protect you and your family.

To begin with one of your first questions might be "what is the swine flu anyway?". Swine flu is an respiratory illness that begun in pigs. This particular stran of flu is now affecting humans, its scientific name is H1N1 as named by the United States Government.

Evidently, discovering how is swine flu transmitted means understanding that swine flu normally does not infect humans. Only those who were in constant, direct contact with infected pigs was at risk.

It is very unfortunate that this particular strain of the flu virus has managed to mutate and is now airborne, it is now proven to be passing via human to human contact.

And another thing, the swine flu incubation period can last for up to 7 days after you’ve been in contact with an infected person.

transmitted by eating pork products however that is not the case.

The CDC or Centers For Bug Control and Prevention is and always has recommend that you cook foods at a temperature of at least 160 degrees Fahrenheit in order to destoy not only the swine flu virus but other bacteria and viruses as well.

Since swine flu is transmitted through human contact, the World Health Organization (WHO) has let the cat out the bag about containment. It states that it is virtually impossible to contain the virus, so people around the world must focus every bit of effort on preventative proceedures.

A great example of this, is people who do not cover their mouth when coughing or sneezing, these people will inevtiably pass it on to others. The CDC has said that everyone should be covering their mouths with a large tissue and sneeze or cough into that tissue, also with their arms covering their face. Catch It, Destoy It, Bin It!

The CDC is also promoting good hygiene this is the most important measure that everyone can take, hands can be washed with soap or antibacterial soaps, washing your hands should last for a minimum of 20 seconds to make sure all germs are killed off.

It is worth the money to purchase some antibacterial hand gel, I for my part use milton, but there are many of the market. We use milton to spray door handles, toilets, surfaces etc.

Look, uncovering just how the swine is caught is your ticket to optimal health during this time of global crisis. You can agree that prevention is the best policy can’t you?



Amanda loves to research and test new products including digital products, health ideas, once tested she writes about them giving her own experience. For all of the latest products, news, and case studies please see Swine Flu Tips

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How To Avoid Swine Flu Our Top 8 Tips

Keywords : swine flu, swine flu symptoms, swine flu outbreak, how to avoid swine flu | Author : Amanda Edwards | Source: www.directorys.uniquearticles.info

First things first. The easy fact of the matter is Swine influenza is zip to make fun of. However, according to health experts, the general public should be vigilant and not panic.

You're probably thinking that's's simpler said than done. Right?
But just keep on reading and find out how to dodge this infection and keep you and your family|folks} safe.

The final analysis is the swine flu outbreak was at first thought to only be transmitted from pigs to humans. Now, studies show that it is being spread through human contact and is quickly becoming one of the most theeatening influenza viruses of our time.

The CDC ( Center For Disease Control ) and The World Health Organization have been working constantly to keep us in the know.up to date with all the confirmed cases and deaths from the virus all around the world.
Here are the details on swine flu symptoms :

1. Runny nose
2. Achy muscles
3. Listlessness
4 Absence of appetite
5. Unexpected onset of fever over 101

I am sure you can see clearly see, it is hard to notice the difference between other types of influenza symptoms, so this type of the virus needs a diagnosis from your well-being specialist.

But, do not fret, there are some very effective paths to ward off infection and stop the spread of swine influenza.

Listen awfully carefully now :
One - do not gamble it. If you are suffering from flu likesymptoms, simply remain at home. Since these symptoms mirror regular cold and flu symptoms, its better to be safe than sorrowful.

Two - learn how to cough and sneeze. Here's the deal - cough or sneeze into the interior of your elbow on your arm. This is the most effective way to

Three - Wash hands frequently and totally. Whatever you touch might be affected, so a good rule of thumb is to keep your hands clean to cut down on your odds of becoming infected.

Four - Simply have a tube of hand sanitizer with you at all time. This way you can constantly clean your hands.

Five - Beware of public places. Door handles and even ink pens are breeding grounds for germs. Avoid touching them at any cost.

Six - Be cautious on airplanes. The close quarters of an airplane is a place where germs like the swine flu virus lurk so protect yourself.

Seven - Wash your fruits and vegetables thoroughly. Get your vegetables and fruit locally if you can. Wash them with water and soak them to increase the effectiveness.

Eight - Telephone Your doctor. If you are experiencing any severeflu like symptoms see your doctor straight away. As stated earlier, only your well being expert can diagnose your particular kind of the flu. Remember not to go in to the doctors surgery without pre-warning them on telephoning as it spreads like wild fire and vulnerable patients may be awaiting appointments in the surgery.

pay attention to what you have learned here about the swine flu. Hang in there and protect yourself as best as possible. By following the straightforward suggestions here, you'll lessen your possibilities of becoming sick.



Amanda loves to research and test new products including digital products, health ideas, once tested she writes about them giving her own experience. To find out more information on protecting yourself from swine flu please click here

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The Symptoms of Swine Flu H1N1

Article Tags : swine flu symptoms, symptoms of swine flu, signs of swine flu, symptoms of the swine flu, what are the symptoms of swine flu

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Article Tittle : What are the Symptoms of Swine Flu H1N1?

Swine flu (also known as swine influenza) is referred to as H1N1 virus of A type. This is the recent strain of flu which has affected people all around the world. This virus is a combined effect of bird flu, swine flu and human flu. This new strain is highly infectious and has become the most talked and seen news on television. It is a pandemic disease and people are really scared of it. H1N1 virus spreads out to other countries by way of people travelling from one country to another.

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