Symptoms of Swine Flu(H1N1) are similar to seasonal viruses and include fever, cough, headache, body aches, sore throat and runny nose. O...
Symptoms of Swine Flu(H1N1) are similar to seasonal viruses and include fever, cough, headache, body aches, sore throat and runny nose. Only your medical practitioner and local health authority can confirm a case of influenza A(H1N1).
- So if you have any symptom like influenza Immediately consult doctor at any government facility meant for swine flu. Please note Swine flu testing is done only at government hospitals.
- If clinical symptoms exist, child will be hospitalized, and tamiflu will be given only if the tests are positive.
- NDTV reports Rapid screening advised by private hospitals not legal.
- Do not go for rapid screening as it's not 100 per cent accurate.
- If you are caring for a sick person, you can wear a mask when you are in close contact with the ill person and dispose of it immediately after contact, and cleanse your hands thoroughly afterwards.
The main route of transmission of the new influenza A(H1N1) virus seems to be similar to seasonal influenza, via droplets that are expelled by speaking, sneezing or coughing. You can prevent getting infected by avoiding close contact with people who show influenza-like symptoms (trying to maintain a distance of about 1 meter if possible) and taking the following measures:
- Avoid touching your mouth and nose;
- Clean hands thoroughly with soap and water, or cleanse them with an alcohol-based hand rub on a regular basis (especially if touching the mouth and nose, or surfaces that are potentially contaminated);
- Avoid close contact with people who might be ill;
- Reduce the time spent in crowded settings if possible;
- Improve airflow in your living space by opening windows;
- Practice good health habits including adequate sleep, eating nutritious food, and keeping physically active. Source WHO
If you are feeling unwell or have symptoms of influenza, you should not travel. If you have any doubts about your health, you should check with your health care provider.
Read good article on NDTV What is swine flu?
Tamiflu is our only weapon to combat swine flu but If taken recklessly, it becomes ineffective when the real infection sets in.So do not take this medicine as a prevention.Experts warn that the medicine could possibly lose its efficacy if used as a preventive measure.
