Everyone by now has probably seen the news stories and heard of the fatalities caused by Swine flu. It appears that we now face a swine flu pandemic, that means that outbreaks are being seen across the world. But what exactly is and how can we protect ourselves? Swine flu is a form of influenza that started in pigs but can be caught by, and spread among, people. The current outbreak, human infection with swine influenza A (H1N1) viruses has been confirmed in the US, Canada, the UK, and other countries. Swine flu is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses. Outbreaks of swine flu happen often in pigs.
People do not normally get swine flu, though infections do occasionally happen. Recently, most human cases of swine influenza have been in people who were in close contact with pigs, such as farmers. In the current outbreak the virus has been spread by person-to-person contact. This has caused concern that the outbreak could become a pandemic flu – a global outbreak of flu that spreads quickly because it is a new type of virus that few of us have any resistance to. The normal type of flu ,usually called seasonal flu caused by an existing flu virus, is a common infection in the that usually occurs during the winter. For most people, it is an unpleasant but not life-threatening infection. People who are more at risk from it, such as older people or those weakened by illness can be given a flu vaccination.
The single most effective way to stop or slow the spread of diseases such as swine flu is to prevent the spread of germs. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water and cover your mouth if you cough or sneeze this is advice that has been given for many years by is still a very effective way to help you avoid spreading or contracting swine flu,also remember if you or a family member are ill or have the swine flu symptoms it Is much better to stay at home away from work or school and thus reduce the risk of spreading the infection.
Its also worth noting that swine flu cannot be caught by eating pork or other pig related foodstuffs. There is also no need for panic we do have effective treatments antiviral drugs are effective against swine flu if you are suffering flu symptoms visit your doctor or pharmacist who will be able to prescribe the correct medication. Those most at risk are young children older people and those with underlying medical conditions. Remember wash your hands regularly with soap and water cover your mouth if you cough or sneeze and stay away from work or school if you have flu symptoms and always seek professional medical advice.
Robert is webmaster at http://www.dietwell.co.uk