What exactly is Swine Flu?
Swine Flu came out as an epidemic outbreak that terrorized the entire world with its effect. It’s an influenza virus of type-A, which affects pigs, had no links to humans until 2009.
It outspread in 2009-2010 as a global outbreak (pandemic) with the name H1N1. It occurs when an influenza virus with a combination of human genes, swine, and avian (bird) mixed in pigs spread to humans.
The virus first entered a 10-year old girl in California. The extent of this deadly virus should measure by the fact that over 5, 75,400 people died from it since its existence.
What are its Causes?
As the type-A influenza virus mixes with other strains, it creates a new pressure that causes the pandemic.
The worst outcome came when the strain mixed with human genes through pigs that caused a nightmare of the century.
It spread out just like the regular Flu- by coming in contact with an infected person, from air droplets, contaminated surfaces (such as eyes, mouth, or nose).
Though, there are lesser chances to get influenza by eating pork unless adequately cooked.
How to check its Symptoms?
H1N1 is similar to the seasonal Flu as most of the symptoms match the regular Flu. But H1N1 gives a respiratory illness, which is quite contagious. So, here are indications that you might suffer from H1N1 Flu, and it is time to book an appointment online with doctors:
- Fever
- Body Ache
- Cough
- Loss of appetite
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Sore throat
- Irritated eyes
- Runny nose
- Vomiting, nausea, and Diarrhea
Along with it, there are some severe symptoms which can occur and might prove fatal like:
- Chest pressure or pain
- Difficulty in breathing
- Abdominal pain or pressure
- Confusion
- Dizziness
- Severe Vomiting that won’t stop
- Flu-like Symptoms with occasional fever and cough.
These all symptoms pose the worst effect inside your body, which may cause Pneumonia, Bronchitis, Chronic Diseases, Ear Infections, Respiratory failure, and even death. So, does it sound scary? Well, if there’s no proper treatment, there’s no adequate solution.
Is there any diagnosis of Swine Flu?
If you are suffering from some symptoms of Flu, it is usually advisable not to reach a doctor right away. But if there is a case of some chronic illness such as diabetes, asthma, heart ailment, or emphysema and you are suffering from the same symptoms, then you much reach out to a doctor as soon as possible.
Pregnant women suffering from the same symptoms must also reach the doctor. In both the condition, the chances of catching the Flu are high. After running some rapid influenza diagnostic tests, the doctor will identify whether the problem is of type A or B.
This whole procedure takes about four to five days, along with rapid molecular assays to give accurate results.
Treatment of Swine Flu
There are some treatments available to lessen the effects of H1N1 Flu. Patients who are prone to higher risks of complications get provided with some anti-viral medications such as Relenza and Tamiflu. These medications give some temporary respite to the patients as it will shorten its duration, or control the problems to some extent.
It is also advisable to note that you don’t need to fear the problem and get an annual vaccine for protection from H1N1.