Swine Flu

The current personification of swine flu is actually being termed Novel influenza A (H1N1) virus. It is being called a “quadruple reassortant” virus because it is the result of a mixture of genes from swine viruses, bird viruses, and human viruses. Since the first confirmed laboratory case in the United States on April 15 this year, there have been 13,217 cases in the U.S. alone. The virus, while only killing 27 people in all those cases, has spread across the country very rapidly. It has become cause for concern because of how quickly it spreads and the lack of a vaccine specifically for it. Since swine flu can result in more pronounced symptoms than regular flu, the U.S. government declared a public health emergency on April 26.

So how do you actually get swine flu?

The H1N1 virus spreads in the same way a normal flu virus does. An infected person sneezes into their hand. They then grab the door handle of a building and go inside. The next person to open that door wraps their hand around the germs from the infected person. Now it’s just a matter of rubbing an eye, wiping a nose, or touching a mouth, and the infection has now spread. While the virus can be spread by air via moisture from a cough or sneeze, it is less likely than the above method. 

What can you do about swine flu?

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) have issued several recommendations for prevention and treatment of the H1N1 flu. For prevention, it is essential that hands be washed often and thoroughly using hot water and soap. If this is not feasible, alcohol-based hand sanitizers are an effective method of eliminating germs.

Beyond simply keeping hands clean, you need to also avoid hand contact with your eyes, nose, and mouth, as these are primary locations for germs to enter the body. Avoid close contact with people who appear to be sick. This means anyone who is coughing, sneezing, or seems to be less than healthy.

If you suspect you may have contracted the H1N1 virus, there is no need for concern as long as symptoms remain flu-like. The difference with swine flu symptoms is that there may be vomiting and diarrhea before any more serious symptoms. Also, as the infection worsens, chest pain or pressure, dizziness, confusion, and shortness of breath may appear. These are signs that you need to see a doctor immediately. If flu symptoms seem to improve but then reappear with a worse cough and fever, see a doctor as soon as possible.

There is no need to be overly worried about the flu this season. Once you know the symptoms and know at what point to see a doctor, it becomes just another flu infection that can be dealt with in the usual manner. Importantly, remember that the best step in swine flu prevention is to keep your hands as clean as possible.

About the Author
Jodi M. is a mom with a passion for keeping her family healthy. She highly recommends utilizing a full system approach to defending against the cold and flu. Her favorite product for ultimate prevention is a Hand Sanitizer Spray. Using a spray instead of a gel helps with absorption and makes it easier to apply to kids. And we all know that kids need to fight bacteria more than anyone! With the added benefit of aloe and acai your hands will never feel better! Sun Dew makes a scientifically advanced hand sanitizer as part of a complete line of cold and flu products to help protect, support, fortify, and treat you and your family 365 days a year.