INFLUENZA A (H1N1)

Overview & Facts

H1N1 flu is a respiratory disease caused by influenza viruses that infect most pigs. It is also called swine flu and spread through direct contact with contaminated pigs. However, recent research has shown that acquisition of the virus is not solely because of contacts with the pigs.

People who have it can spread it one day before they have any symptoms and as many as 7 days after they get sick. Kids can be contagious for as long as 10 days.

Despite the name, you can’t catch swine flu from ingesting any pork meat or product.

Types & Symptoms

Symptoms of swine flu can include:

  • Cough
  • Fever
  • Sore Throat
  • Stuffy or Runny Nose
  • Body Aches
  • Headache
  • Chills
  • Fatigue

Like the regular flu, swine flu can lead to more serious problems like pneumonia, a lung infection, and other breathing problems. It also worsens an illness like diabetes or asthma.

Call your doctor if you experienced the following symptoms:

  • Shortness of Breath
  • Severe Vomiting
  • Pain in your Belly or Sides
  • Dizziness
  • Confusion

Diagnosis & Medications

DIAGNOSIS

To diagnose swine flu, the doctor might perform laboratory tests. Aside from checking the symptoms, your doctor may also ask your history or job, especially if you have been to place where an outbreak of the disease is present.

 

TREATMENT

Antiviral drugs may be used to treat H1N1, including:

  • Oseltamivir (Tamiflu)
  • Peramivir (Rapivab)
  • Zanamivir (Relenza)

These drugs can help you get well and make you feel better faster. They work best when you take them within 48 hours of the first flu symptoms. They can still help even if you get them later on.

Over-the-counter pain remedies and cold and flu medications can help relieve symptoms such as aches, pains, and fever. Do not give Aspirin to children under 18 years because of the risk of Reye’s syndrome.

 

PREVENTION

Flu vaccines that work with seasonal flu are also effective against swine flu. You can get it as a shot or as a nasal spray as it teaches your immune system to attack the real virus.

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