Gk.tips4me.com ISSUE NO 3
17th June 2009

LATEST GLOBAL PANDEMIC:
SWINE FLU - by Rachel Fernandes - Gyaan Guru

With 74 countries reporting 27,737 cases of H1N1 infection resulting in 141 deaths worldwide, the WHO (World Health Organization) declared swine flu as a global pandemic on last Thursday, 12th June 09. This is the first flu pandemic to hit the world leading to such serious consequences, after the Hong Kong flu Pandemic that hit the world in 1968. Come, let us get informed about this dangerous flu, its causes, preventive measures and more.

What is Swine Flu?
Swine flu, or influenza A (H1N1), is a respiratory disease that infects pigs and is caused by a flu virus. Until now it had not normally infected humans, but recently the H1N1 virus jumped from pigs to humans in Mexico and then gradually spread to around 53 countries including India, the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, New Zealand and Japan.

Why is it dangerous?
It is a new virus that is spreading rapidly and no one has immunity to it yet. Also, there is no definitive cure yet. This is the prime reason because of which WHO fears that it could infect one third of the world's population within a year.

How it spreads?
Flu viruses are made up of tiny particles that spread through the droplets that come out of one's nose and mouth when he/she coughs or sneezes. These droplets spread easily, exposing others at the risk of breathing them in.

It can also easily spread from one's hand to any hard surfaces that the person touches. Everyday items such as door handles, computer keyboards, mobile and ordinary phones and the TV remote control are all common surfaces where flu viruses can be found.
If other people touch these surfaces and then touch their faces, the germs can enter their systems and they can become infected.

Symptoms
Symptoms of swine flu in humans are similar to those produced by standard, seasonal flu.
These include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, chills, fatigue and in some case diarrhea and nausea.

Though it may not be perceived as a serious threat but even seasonal flu often poses a serious threat to public health: each year it kills 250,000 - 500,000 around the world.

Can it be cured?
Two drugs commonly used to treat flu, Tamiflu and Relenza can be effective but these drugs must be used at an early stage for relevant results. The flu is also said to respond well to anti-viral drug Oseltamivir.

It is mandatory to seek medical help if you feel you could be infected with the said virus, instead of popping pills yourself.

Necessary precautions
General infection control practices and good hygiene help to reduce transmission of all viruses, including the human swine influenza.

One should cover his nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, and use a tissue when possible and dispose it promptly. This can minimize transmission of the virus.

When taking care of someone with a flu-like illness, a mask should be worn to cover the nose and mouth to reduce the risk of transmission.

One must wash hands with soap and hot water or a sanitizer gel as often as possible.

The bottom line is that like any other flu, Swine flu is avoidable if good hygiene standards are maintained and some basic precautions are taken.


Have a nice day,

Tips4Me Team

Rachel Fernandes is an avid reader, with an interest in a variety of topics ranging from bollywood to politics. It is this interest that leads to her pursuit of knowledge.