• zSwine flu, also known as the H1N1 virus is a respiratory disease caused by influenza viruses that infect the respiratory tract of pigs and result in a barking cough, decreased appetite, nasal secretions and listless behavior the virus can be transmitted to humans. Swine flu viruses may mutate (change) so that they are easily transmissible among humans.

• Swine flu, also known as the H1N1 virus is a respiratory disease caused by influenza viruses that infect the respiratory tract of pigs and result in a barking cough, decreased appetite, nasal secretions and listless behavior the virus can be transmitted to humans. Swine flu viruses may mutate (change) so that they are easily transmissible among humans.

INTRODUCTIONSwine flu also known as the H1N1 virus is a respiratory disease caused by influenza viruses that infect the respiratory tract of pigs and result in a barking cough, decreased appetite, nasal infections and listless behavior, these viruses can be transmitted to humans. Swine flu viruses may mutate (change) so that they are easily transmissible among humans.

The virus is passed to others through contact with infected respiratory droplets caused by coughing or sneezing

Adults are contagious beginning 1 day before the onset of symptoms and up to 24 hours after their fever has subsided (without taking fever reducing medicines such as Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen)

The virus can live on hard surfaces from 2-8 hours.

SWINE FLU CHARACTERISTICS

Swine flu is transmitted from person to person by inhalation or ingestion of droplets containing virus from people sneezing or coughing.

It is not transmitted by eating cooked pork products.

HOW IS IT TRANSMITTED?

SYMPTOMSchillsfevercoughingsore throatrunny or stuffy nosebody achesfatiguediarrheanausea and vomiting

DIAGNOSISTo diagnose swine influenza A infection a respiratory specimen would generally need to be collected within first 4 to 5 days of illness. However, some persons especially children may shed virus for 10 days or longer .

The best way to prevent swine flu is to get a yearly flu vaccination. Other easy ways to prevent swine flu include:Frequently washing hands with soap or hand sanitizerNot touching your nose, mouth, or eyes (the virus can survive on surfaces like telephones and tabletops)Staying home from work or school if you're illAvoiding large gatherings when swine flu is in season

PREVENTION

MEDICATIONThere are four different antiviral drugs that are licensed for the treatment of influenza:

AmantidineRimantadineOseltamivirZanamivir

Methods for managing the symptoms of swine flu are similar to the regular flu:

Get plenty of rest. This will help your immune system focus on fighting the infection.Drink plenty of water and other liquids to prevent dehydration. Soup and clear juices will help replenish your body of lost nutrients.Take over-the-counter pain relievers for symptoms such as headache and sore throat.

SWINE FLU SYMPTOM RELIEF

TAKE THESE EVERYDAY STEPS TO PROTECT YOUR HEALTH

Wash your hands often with soap and warm water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Wash at least for 15-20 seconds.Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.Avoid contact with sick people.