Swine Flu - Chennai India

Even though Swine flew is not detected in Chennai and India, its always better to have precautions, so that it will not become an epidemic
 
SWINE FLU

What is swine flu?
Swine Influenza (swine flu) is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses that causes regular outbreaks in pigs. 
 
Are there human infections with swine flu?
In late March and early April 2009, cases of human infection with swine influenza A (H1N1) viruses were first reported in Southern California and near San Antonio, Texas. Other U.S. states have reported cases of swine flu infection in humans and cases have been reported internationally as well. 
 
Is this swine flu virus contagious? 
Swine influenza A (H1N1) virus is contagious and is transmitting from human to human. 
 
What are the signs and symptoms of swine flu in people?
The symptoms of swine flu in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with swine flu. In the past, severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and deaths have been reported with swine flu infection in people. Like seasonal flu, swine flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.
 
How does swine flu spread? 
Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing of people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.
 
How can someone with the flu infect someone else?
Infected people may be able to infect others beginning 1 day before symptoms develop and up to 7 or more days after becoming sick. That means that you may be able to pass on the flu to someone else before you know you are sick, as well as while you are sick.
 
What should I do to keep from getting the flu? 
First and most important: wash your hands. Try to stay in good general health. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food. Try not touch surfaces that may be contaminated with the flu virus. Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
 
Are there medicines to treat swine flu?
Yes. CDC recommends the use of oseltamivir or zanamivir (NA) for the treatment and/or prevention of infection with these swine influenza viruses. When infected, antiviral drugs can make the illness milder and better faster. They may also prevent serious flu complications. For treatment, antiviral drugs work best if started soon after getting sick (within 2 days of symptoms).
 
 
Precautions:
 

1. Cover your nose & mouth with a tissue when you sneeze or cough

2. Wash your hands with soap & water especially after you sneeze/cough

3. Avoid touching the eyes, nose & mouth of a patient

4. Stay away from school/work if infected

5. Contact the doctor if fever, body aches, runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea occurs