OUTBREAK OF INLEUNZA “A/H1N1” – SWINE FLU What is “influenza H1N1”?

The name "influenza A/H1N1" is used to label the new flu that emerged in April 2009 (also commonly called "Swine Flu".) However, influenza A/H1N1 is also the name of a strain of seasonal influenza that circulates among in humans all the time.

The new influenza virus found in April 2009 is a new type of A/H1N1. It has never before been seen among humans. It is very different than seasonal flu. Nevertheless, on April 30, the World Health Organization declared they would refer to the virus as influenza A/H1N1. This has been largely adopted by international organizations and media outlets. It is sometimes simplified to H1N1 or H1N1 flu.

How influenza H1N is spreading

It is most likely spreading from person to person in the same way seasonal flu viruses spread - through infectious respiratory droplets. They are expelled when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks.

Symptoms of the new influenza H1N1

The symptoms are similar to that of regular human seasonal influenza - fever, headache, cough, runny nose, sore throat, lethargy, loss of appetite and body aches. Some reports say people with H1N1 flu experience nausea, vomiting and diarrhea more often than is usual with seasonal flu.

How to keep away from getting the flu

Begin with simple steps –

· Adopt cough etiquettes i.e. covering mouth & nose with handkerchief or tissue paper while coughing.

· Stay at least an arm’s length from persons coughing or sneezing, avoid gathering and wash your hands frequently.

· 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.

How to stay healthy

Simple hygiene measures will go a long way to preventing all kinds of infectious respiratory illnesses, including H1N1 flu and regular flu.

ü Wash your hands frequently. Carry a hand sanitizer, and use it when soap and water aren't readily available.

ü Avoid touching your face.

ü Do not have contact with people who are obviously sick.

ü Maintain good general health. If you have a chronic medical condition, ensure it is under the best possible control. Talk to your doctor.

ü Ensure all routine vaccinations are up-to-date. (This includes pneumocococcal vaccination for some groups of people. Your doctor can advise you better on this)