What is swine flu?

Swine flu is a respiratory disease. It is also referred as novel H1N1 or pandemic 2009 virus. Initially, swine flu virus infected only pigs. In general, it does not infect people. But human infection can occur.

In April 2009 pandemic H1N1 virus was detected in people in the United States. This present influenza virus is mutated from pig and bird influenza viruses. So humans do not have immunity to it. Initially it was referred as swine flu because many genes are similar to that of influenza virus in pigs.

Like the normal influenza virus spreads from person to person, in the same way this new H1N1 virus spreads.

What are the symptoms of swine flu?

The symptoms of swine flu are very much like the symptoms of common flu. Initially the symptoms are mostly cold, fever, cough, runny nose, body ache.

Serious symptoms in children that call for urgent attention are like following –

1. High grade fever

2. Worse cough

3. Severe vomiting

4. Skin color changes to gray or bluish

5. Fast breathing

Serious symptoms in adults are –

1. High grade fever

2. Worse cough

3. Shortness of breath

4. Pain in chest or abdomen

5. Giddiness

6. Persistent Vomiting

What precautions should we take?

Since the flu spreads by the contact the most important precaution is to observe hygiene.

1. When you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose. Use mask or tissue paper for covering mouth and nose. After using tissue paper, throw it in trash. If you are using mask, it should be changed regularly.

2. Wash your hands regularly with soap. It is also necessary to wash your hands after coughing and sneezing.

3. Use alcohol based soaps for more effectiveness.

4. Stay away from people if you are sick.

5. Keep safe distance from sick people.

With help of proper medication and care swine flu can be cured. There is nothing to be panic but one should be careful.