29/10/2018
H1N1 - Seasonal Influenza A (Swine Flu) – Awareness…
The main route of transmission of the pandemic influenza virus seems to be similar to seasonal influenza, via droplets that are expelled by speaking, sneezing or coughing.
You can prevent getting infected by taking the following measures:
Keeping your distance from people who show symptoms of influenza-like illness, such as coughing and sneezing (trying to maintain a distance of about 1 meter if possible);
Clean hands thoroughly with soap and water, or cleanse them with an alcohol-based hand-rub on a regular basis (especially if touching surfaces that are potentially contaminated like chairs, phones, door handles etc.)
Cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough with a disposable tissue instead of a handkerchief if you have a cold and throw the tissue in dustbin after use.
Avoid touching your mouth, nose and eyes as much as possible;
Practice good health habits (including adequate sleep, eating nutritious food, and keeping physically active);
Antiviral medication and the seasonal flu vaccination are also offered to people at risk; and getting yourself (or family members age 6 months and older) vaccinated against the pandemic influenza, if possible.
If someone at home is suffering from swine flu, clean the surfaces frequently to prevent it from spreading. Patients suffering from flu should stay indoors one day post the last episode of fever (without any fever reducing drugs). They should wear a mask preferably N95 to cover their mouth and nose, maintain thorough hand hygiene before touching common objects. All these measures will help reduce the spread of disease to others.
Be more vigilant than being scared.
Typical symptoms to watch for include
sudden fever – a temperature of 38⁰C (100.4⁰F) or above
cough
headache
body aches, aching muscles or joint pain
sore throat and runny nose.
Tiredness
One must seek immediate medical attention in case of the symptoms includes shortness of breath or difficulty in breathing, or if a fever continues more than three days. If the child is unwell and has fast or labored breathing, continuing fever or convulsions (seizures).
Most people recover within a week, even without special treatment.
If confirmed Swine Flu, do not panic, it is treatable. Please seek immediate medical help from your physician or visit your nearest hospital.
