This is important because as the facts begin to unfold, this is a human to human transmission; meaning that contact with pigs is not the primary factor in the transmission of this episode of swine flu. Be aware that the virus can be spread up to 48 hours prior to the first symptoms and for several days after illness. Those who become ill need to stay away from others to decrease the spread.
Novel Strain
It is a new or novel strain of the H1N1 flu virus and therefore is not covered by any flu vaccine at present. Work has begun to develop a vaccine for this strain and will most likely be a part of next year’s flu vaccine. Although it is near the tail end of the 2008-9 regular seasonal flu season, those who have not been vaccinated against this year’s flu strains are encouraged to be vaccinated.
U.S. Issues Travel Alerts
Cases of swine flu are appearing around the world; most of the infected are children or young adults. It appears to have begun in Mexico. The U.S. Government has issued travel alerts for travel to Mexico and encourages travelers to restrict travel to Mexico for urgent issues only. Airports and borders remain open.
At one point it was thought that the 1918 flu that killed 30 to 50 million people was a strain of swine flu, but it is now known to have been a strain of bird flu. There have however, been previous swine flu pandemics in the U.S. such as in the 1950s.
Symptoms of Swine Flu
Swine Flu is an acute respiratory virus caused by one of several swine influenza A viruses. Symptoms include a combination of temperature of over 100.5 degrees F, a cough and sore throat, and known contact with someone who has been diagnosed with Swine Flu. The patient may also have cold symptoms, body aches, decreased appetite, and decreased energy.
Although the virus begins in pigs, there is no indication that eating pork products transmits the flu virus.
Preparing for Pandemic
Health officials are preparing for a pandemic and measures have been set in place to make available adequate resources to confront the disease should there become a need. There is no need or panic. Simple common sense procedures can hold the virus in check.
Handwashing is Best Defense
At present health officials are cautioning the public to use appropriate measures to protect themselves and others. Hygiene measures such as
- handwashing can be the best defense for everyone.
- Covering the mouth and nose for sneezes and coughs.
- Isolating those who are ill, and limiting caregivers is also recommended.
- Stay home from school or work so as nor to expose others.
- Avoid crowds, and contact with pigs.
- Teach children to wash their hands often.
Masks are not being recommended except for health professionals as they can give a false sense of security. Unless the mask is worn 100% of the time, breaks can open the person to exposure. It is not uncommon for people to lift the mask to speak and this opens them to exposure or to expose others. Masks can become moist or contaminated from breathing, coughing or sneezing and then becomes a source of disease itself.
Unlike some of the 2008-9 seasonal flu strains, the swine flu is not resistant to the available antiviral medications. These medications need to be started within the first 48 hours after symptoms begin to be effective. Anyone exhibiting symptoms should contact his health care practitioner.
Resources:
Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC)
World Health Organization (WHO)
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