Because of the recent media buzz and user demand for information regarding this possible pandemic, I have organized important information regarding the Swine Flu. Sources include news outlets, CDC, and other information sites (wikipedia).
As of now, a few states have the swine flu (which apparently originated from pigs in Mexico).
Symptoms:
Symptoms of swine flu in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include: fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue.
Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with swine flu. In the past, severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and deaths have been reported with swine flu infection in people. Like seasonal flu, swine flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions
Diagnosis:
Epidemiology (prevalence, location), symptoms, pathology, and laboratory examination all contribute to an accurate diagnosis of Swine Flu.
A respiratory sample is taken and the following tests peformed:
-Direct immunofluorescence - detection of virus in histological edges
-Indirect immunofluorescence - detection of specific antibodies from sera
-ELISA
Treatment:
CDC recommends the use of oseltamivir or zanamivir for the treatment and/or prevention of infection with swine influenza viruses. Antiviral drugs are prescription medicines (pills, liquid or an inhaler) that fight against the flu by keeping flu viruses from reproducing in your body. If you get sick, antiviral drugs can make your illness milder and make you feel better faster. They may also prevent serious flu complications. For treatment, antiviral drugs work best if started soon after getting sick (within 2 days of symptoms).
Prevetion:
-Wash hands!
-Cover up your coughs & see a physician if you think you have been infected (especially if its in an area that has been hit).
-Avoid sharing drinks (this can allow the virus to spread)
-Local authorities may close schools in an effected area to prevent spread of the flu.
originally from healthsip.com
As of now, a few states have the swine flu (which apparently originated from pigs in Mexico).
Symptoms:
Symptoms of swine flu in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include: fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue.
Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with swine flu. In the past, severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and deaths have been reported with swine flu infection in people. Like seasonal flu, swine flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions
Diagnosis:
Epidemiology (prevalence, location), symptoms, pathology, and laboratory examination all contribute to an accurate diagnosis of Swine Flu.
A respiratory sample is taken and the following tests peformed:
-Direct immunofluorescence - detection of virus in histological edges
-Indirect immunofluorescence - detection of specific antibodies from sera
-ELISA
Treatment:
CDC recommends the use of oseltamivir or zanamivir for the treatment and/or prevention of infection with swine influenza viruses. Antiviral drugs are prescription medicines (pills, liquid or an inhaler) that fight against the flu by keeping flu viruses from reproducing in your body. If you get sick, antiviral drugs can make your illness milder and make you feel better faster. They may also prevent serious flu complications. For treatment, antiviral drugs work best if started soon after getting sick (within 2 days of symptoms).
Prevetion:
-Wash hands!
-Cover up your coughs & see a physician if you think you have been infected (especially if its in an area that has been hit).
-Avoid sharing drinks (this can allow the virus to spread)
-Local authorities may close schools in an effected area to prevent spread of the flu.
originally from healthsip.com
