What is the new influenza A(H1N1)?
Influenza – A (H1N1) is a new influenza virus causing illness in people. Swine flu is a contagious disease caused by Type A strains of the influenza virus. First detected in Mexico in April, 2009, it has spread to many countries in the World. This was originally referred to as “swine flu” because laboratory testing showed that many of the genes in this new virus were very similar to those found in pigs in North America. Further on, it has been found that this new virus has gene segments from the swine, avian and human flu virus genes.
How do people get infected by the virus?
The A (H1N1) virus is spread from person-to-person. It is transmitted as easily as the normal seasonal flu and can be passed to other people by exposure to infected droplets expelled by coughing or sneezing that can be inhaled, or that can contaminate hands or surfaces. Droplets from a cough or sneeze of an infected person move through the air. Virus can be spread when a person touches respiratory droplets from another person on a surface and then touches their own eyes, mouth or nose before washing their hands.
What are the signs and symptoms of the infection?
The symptoms of Influenza A (H1N1) in people are similar to the symptoms of regular seasonal flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, headache, muscle and joint pain, and sometimes diarrhea and vomiting.
Are some people more prone to get affected by the virus?
Younger, older people, pregnant women, people with other medical conditions like diabetes, cancer, respiratory diseases are at higher risk of getting affected. However, WHO recommends that everyone take precautions to prevent the spread of infection.
Is it safe to eat pork and pork products?
Yes. influenza A(H1N1) has not been shown to be transmissible to people through eating properly handled and prepared pork (pig meat) or other products derived from pigs. The influenza A(H1N1) virus is killed by cooking temperatures of 160°F/70°C, corresponding to the general guidance for the preparation of pork and other meat.
Is it safe to travel to infected countries?
Yes. However, non-essential travel should be avoided. WHO is not recommending travel restrictions related to the outbreak of the influenza A(H1N1) virus. Please follow the Do’s and Don’ts provided ahead.
What is the infectious period?
Infection period for a confirmed case of the influenza A(H1N1) is defined as 1 day prior to the onset of illness to 7 days after onset.
What should I do if I think I have the illness?
§stay at home and keep away from work, school or crowds;
§rest and take plenty of fluids;
§cover your nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing and, if using tissues, make sure you dispose of them carefully. Clean your hands immediately after with soap and water or cleanse them with an alcohol-based hand rub;
§if you do not have a tissue close by when you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth as much as possible with the crook of your elbow;
§use a mask to help you contain the spread of droplets when you are around others, but be sure to do so correctly;
§inform family and friends about your illness and try to avoid contact with other people;
§If possible, contact a health professional before traveling to a health facility to discuss whether a medical examination is necessary.
Should I take an antiviral now just in case I catch the new virus?
No. You should only take an antiviral, such as oseltamivir or zanamivir, if your health care provider advises you to do so. Individuals should not buy medicines to prevent or fight this new influenza without a prescription on self medication.
Should I go to work if I have the flu but am feeling OK?
No. Whether you have influenza A(H1N1) or a seasonal influenza, you should stay home and away from work through the duration of your symptoms and visit a doctor immediately. This is a precaution that can protect your work colleagues and others.
Can I travel if I have flu?
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 doctor.
What about using a mask?
If you are not sick you do not have to wear a mask. 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.
§Wash hands properly using a alcohol based sanitizers on a regular basis (especially if touching the mouth and nose, or surfaces that are potentially contaminated)
§Cover the nose/mouth with a handkerchief/ tissue paper when coughing or sneezing
§Stay more than an arm's length from persons afflicted with flu
§Get plenty of sleep
§Drink plenty of water and eat nutritious food
Avoid crowded places
§Before travelling please check the Indian health ministry websites for information on affected areas/cities/country’s
§If infected three layered surgical mask is recommended for all cases and immediate family and social contacts
§All the waste has to be treated as infectious waste and should be discarded on a daily basis
§If you suffer from the symptoms, seek medical advice
§Shake hands or hug in greeting
§Spit in public
§Take medicines without consulting a physician
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