Brief History of Swine Flu
The first news of this new and deadly disease called Swine Flu hit back in 2009. This new strain of the flu originated in pigs and the infections spread to humans. Back then, this new and unknown disease was classified as a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) ,causing fear and panic across the world. However scientists all over got on it straight away and discovered that this is no more than a newer strain of the regular flu virus and can be prevented and treated in relatively the same way. In August 2010, WHO declared the pandemic over and Swine Flu has now been demoted in terms of classification form pandemic to a flu virus.
Incidences of the Swine flu have drastically decreased over the last few years and we barely hear the term anymore. However a recent outbreak of the virus has been reported. Although, there is no need for panic, we must be alert and ready to take action to prevent and treat this virus before it gets out of hand.
We need to fully understand and recognize the signs of Swine flu and know exactly what to do should we suspect we or someone we know may have it.
Causes of Swine Flu
This virus is highly contagious and can spread easily from an infected person to others through direct contact, bodily fluids or surfaces touched by infected person. It is important to take extra precaution to avoid contact with those you know to be infected by the virus and by regular sanitization of body and surfaces during this outbreak, especially when using public facilities. Of course, you cannot always control who you come into contact with and so the only sure way to prevent the virus is with a vaccine.
Symptoms of Swine Flu
If you experience any of the symptoms below, please contact your health provider immediately. Symptoms of Swine Flu:
- Body Ache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fatigue
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Chills
- Fever
- Red, watery eyes
- Runny nose
- Body aches
Preventing Swine Flu
The good news is that Swine flu can now be prevented with a yearly vaccination. What’s more, Doctors-on-Call, your House Call Doctor, can happily provide this service to you at your home or work. So, a quick visit from a doctor once a year can allow you to go on with your life without the panic of Swine flu- one less thing to worry about.
Diagnosing Swine Flu
After assessing symptoms, your house call doctor will send a sample of various forms of bodily fluid (saliva, urine, blood) to a laboratory for testing to confirm the presence of the virus.
Treatment of Swine Flu
Treatment for swine flu is similar to treatment for flu. Your house call doctor may prescribe you a dose of anti-viral medications and there are many over-the-counter as well as prescription medications to treat the symptoms listed above.
Fatalities
In most relatively healthy people, Swine Flu is usually treatable like most other strains of flu. However in patients which have serious underlying medical conditions which may compromise their organs and immune system, a case of Swine flu can worsen these conditions and lead to death.
It is crucial at this time to be keeping up with our standard health practices, such as good diet and exercise as well as supplementation to keep our immune systems strong, and not to mention, having our annual flu vaccinations! Most flu vaccinations these days come standard with the H1N1 virus vaccination included. If you are unsure, don’t hesitate to ask your house call doctor about it.