Safety Tips-Swine Flu

0 views
Skip to first unread message

Shivender Doegar

unread,
Aug 14, 2009, 1:05:56 PM8/14/09
to abhishe...@pidilite.co.in, centres_of...@yahoogroups.com

Subject: Safety Tips-Swine Flu

SWINE FLU

 

WHAT IS SWINE FLU?

Swine flu is a highly contagious (spreads from person to person) infection caused by a virus.The 2009 flu pandemic is a global outbreak of a new strain of influenza virus, officially named the "new H1N1", first identified in April 2009, and commonly called "Swine flu."The name ‘Swine Flu” is however a misnomer as the infection has also been detected in people who were never in contact with pigs.

 

HOW DOES INFLUENZA A (H1N1) FLU SPREAD?

It spreads just like any other flu through:

  • Coughing
  • Sneezing
  • Touching infected surfaces

Symptoms That May Require Medical Attention

 

Certain symptoms may require emergency medical attention.

In Children

·          Blue lips and skin

·          Dehydration

·          Rapid breathing

·          Excessive sleeping

·          Seizures

·          Significant irritability that includes a lack of desire to be held.

In Adults

·          Shortness of breath

·          Pain in the chest or abdomen

·          Sudden dizziness or confusion

In Both Children And Adults

·          Persistent vomiting or the return of flu-like symptoms that include a fever and cough may require medical attention.

DETECTION OF H1N1

Thermal Detection Devices installed at most airports and some railway stations and bus stands register the fever of flu patients as heat. This device does not however confirm whether the fever if due to H1N1 infection or some other reason.For the confirmation purposes, a suspected patient’s sample, eg, nasal swab needs to be sent to a specialized laboratory. Only lab tests can confirm H1N1 infection.

 

What Should We Do?

  • DO NOT PANIC. Do not believe in rumours.
  • Avoid travelling to flu prone countries as far as possible.
  • Maintain good personal hygiene.
  • Cover your sneeze and cough well with a disposable tissue.
  • Adhere to good hand washing/cleaning procedures especially after coughing, sneezing and before meals.
  • Avoid close contact with people who appear unwell and who have fever cough or cold.
  • Masks may be of benefit in "crowded settings" or for people who are in "close contact", defined as 1 meter or less by the World Health Organization with infected persons,
  • Though there is no evidence of Influenza a H1N1 spread through eating non vegetarian food, it is essential to ensure proper cooking of food before consumption.
  • In case there is someone around you with flu, Keep distance, and after touching any object that may be carrying the flu virus do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth.
  • Keep your immunity high with a balanced diet with fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein, sufficient sleep and regular exercise.
  • Influenza viruses are not known to be transmissible to people through eating processed pork or other food products derived from pigs. Consuming pork does not spread the virus.
  • If there is illness, immediately consult your Doctor.

 

Reply all
Reply to author
Forward
0 new messages