With the swine flu related deaths reaching three digits in India, there is a sense of panic in us about this deadly virus. Do not worry, it is not as dangerous as it seems. Swine flu is just a kind of Flu virus which causes common cold. The reason of its more severe symptoms in humans is that it is not a common virus infecting humans. It is naturally occurring in pigs but has made its way through in humans.
HOW IT SPREADS: It spreads through contact with people infected with swine flu, through common towels, shaking hands etc.
SYMPTOMS: The symptoms of swine flu are just like common cold. Fever, runny nose, cough, body pain.
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PEOPLE AT RISK: Not all people who get swine flu develop complications. Most recover on their own. The complications commonly occur in
a.Children below 5 years of age and adults over 65.
b. People suffering from other diseases like diabetes and kidney or liver disease or taking long term medicines such as steroids.
c. People who are malnourished and have not been eating healthy.
WHEN TO PANIC: A normal flu goes on its own and all that is advised is rest.
One needs to be more cautious if they have any of these symptoms.
1.High fever exceeding 102 F
2.Uncontrolled vomiting., loose motions or stomach pain.
3.Difficulty in breathing or chest pain.
4. Loss of consciousness or feeling drowsy( sleepy)
5. Bleeding through any place( cough, vomiting, urine)
These are the times when you should immediately rush to see a doctor.
TREATMENT: If the nasal swab taken for testing confirms swine flu, your doctor will prescribe you Tamiflu (Ostelamivir). It decreases the severity of illness if taken within 48 hours of disease.This drug is no available over the counter due to risk of resistance to the drugs in case of overuse.
Rest and lots of oral fluids.
Paracetamol for fever . Do not take Aspirin for viral illness as it may cause something known as REYE's Synndrome.
PREVENTION: Considering its severe nature, it is in our best interest to prevent this disease.
Personal measures such as washing hands for at least 30 seconds with soap, using handkerchief and staying at home if ill would not only protect us but also our surroundings.
A vaccine is available which provides protection against severe disease for a year is available. If you or your family members are one of those who are at risk as mentioned previously or have been close to someone diagnosed with swine flu, it is better to consult your doctor for the vaccination.
Swine Flu is not a deadly disease as believed, Rest and good hydration and timely treatment can cure most of the cases. DO NOT PANIC.
If you have any doubts about swine flu, do comment
HOW IT SPREADS: It spreads through contact with people infected with swine flu, through common towels, shaking hands etc.
SYMPTOMS: The symptoms of swine flu are just like common cold. Fever, runny nose, cough, body pain.
a.Children below 5 years of age and adults over 65.
b. People suffering from other diseases like diabetes and kidney or liver disease or taking long term medicines such as steroids.
c. People who are malnourished and have not been eating healthy.
WHEN TO PANIC: A normal flu goes on its own and all that is advised is rest.
One needs to be more cautious if they have any of these symptoms.
1.High fever exceeding 102 F
2.Uncontrolled vomiting., loose motions or stomach pain.
3.Difficulty in breathing or chest pain.
4. Loss of consciousness or feeling drowsy( sleepy)
5. Bleeding through any place( cough, vomiting, urine)
These are the times when you should immediately rush to see a doctor.
TREATMENT: If the nasal swab taken for testing confirms swine flu, your doctor will prescribe you Tamiflu (Ostelamivir). It decreases the severity of illness if taken within 48 hours of disease.This drug is no available over the counter due to risk of resistance to the drugs in case of overuse.
Rest and lots of oral fluids.
Paracetamol for fever . Do not take Aspirin for viral illness as it may cause something known as REYE's Synndrome.
PREVENTION: Considering its severe nature, it is in our best interest to prevent this disease.
Personal measures such as washing hands for at least 30 seconds with soap, using handkerchief and staying at home if ill would not only protect us but also our surroundings.
A vaccine is available which provides protection against severe disease for a year is available. If you or your family members are one of those who are at risk as mentioned previously or have been close to someone diagnosed with swine flu, it is better to consult your doctor for the vaccination.
Swine Flu is not a deadly disease as believed, Rest and good hydration and timely treatment can cure most of the cases. DO NOT PANIC.
If you have any doubts about swine flu, do comment
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