Swine flu, or H1N1 flu, is a virus that attacks your lungs and can spread from person to person through coughing and sneezing and contact with infected surfaces.
Most people with swine flu recover with proper care, although the disease poses a particular risk to infants, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with other health problems.
Symptoms:
Fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headache, body aches, tiredness, or chills. Some people may experience vomiting or diarrhea.
Follow the simplest yet most effective prevention method:
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, or use hand sanitizer with 60 percent or more alcohol, after coughing and sneezing, and whenever you touch public objects.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth unless your hands are clean first. Protect others: Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, using a tissue, and then immediately throw it in the trash, or use your elbow. If you have flu-like symptoms, avoid close contact with others and stay home to reduce the risk of spreading the infection.
- When you are in crowded or closed spaces with poor ventilation, wear the right mask to avoid respiratory infections.
- Avoid sharing personal items like utensils, mugs, and towels with people who are infected.
- Regularly disinfect and clean items that a person touches frequently.
- Some easy ways to avoid cold and flu symptoms include: drinking plenty of water and fluids, a balanced diet, and plenty of rest.
- If your symptoms are severe or persist and worsen, seek immediate medical attention. Severe shortness of breath, chest pain, confusion, or severe dehydration are medical emergencies and should be treated immediately.
Most importantly, don't worry! Awareness, good hygiene, and precautionary behavior, along with prompt medical attention, can go a long way in preventing the spread of swine flu.
PC: Rochak Khabre
