Most of us have heard about the swine flu outbreak in Mexico that has killed dozens, and now we are hearing about reports of swine flu cases in the United States. As reports of swine flu infection continue to rise, we can not help but be alarmed. The World Health Organization even called the swine flu outbreak in Mexico a “public health emergency of international concern.” What is swine flu? How do we protect ourselves from being infected with swine influenza? How is it transmitted? These are just some of the questions that are playing in our heads right now. So here are some quick facts about swine flu:
Swine flu, or swine influenza, is a disease that affects the respiratory system; it is caused by the Orthomyxoviruses or a certain strain of the type A influenza virus. Although endemic in pigs, Orthomyxoviruses can be transmitted to humans. Those who are in contact with pigs with the virus are most likely to get the disease. There are also cases of human-to-human transmission, which was the case in Mexico. The severity of swine influenza in humans could vary: it could be mild, or it could be severe and could lead to death.
A person who has swine flu can infect other people through coughing and sneezing. Experts also believe that it is possible to be infected just by touching a contaminated surface. The symptoms of swine flu are very much like that of the common influenza: cough, fever, fatigue, sore throat, headache, and chills. Diarrhea and vomiting also can be experienced. Swine flu can lead to pneumonia and respiratory failure, which can lead to death.
Experts recommend antiviral drugs like oseltamivir or zanavimir as treatment for swine flu. Antiviral drugs work by keeping the virus from reproducing inside the body. Antiviral drugs can be most effective when taken by the patient 48 hours after symptoms are experienced.
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