13 swine flu symptoms most people ignore

swine flu

Swine flu, also known as H1N1 influenza, is a respiratory illness caused by the H1N1 influenza virus. The term “swine flu” originated during the 2009 pandemic when the H1N1 virus was first identified in pigs and then spread to humans. H1N1 is a subtype of the influenza A virus. The “H” and “N” refer to the types of proteins on the virus’s surface.

causes swine flu (h1n1)

Swine flu, or H1N1 influenza, is caused by a strain of the influenza virus known as H1N1. This virus is a type of A influenza virus and was first identified in pigs, hence the name “swine flu.” The H1N1 virus is transmitted between people through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also spread by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching the face.

diagnosis and tests

Diagnosing swine flu involves a combination of evaluating symptoms and conducting laboratory tests. Symptoms typically include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, and fatigue. To confirm the diagnosis, healthcare providers may perform tests such as a rapid influenza diagnostic test (RIDT), a PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test to detect viral genetic material, or a viral culture to identify the virus from a nasal or throat swab.

management and treatment

Management of swine flu primarily involves supportive care and antiviral medications. Antiviral drugs such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu) or zanamivir (Relenza) may be prescribed, especially if treatment begins within 48 hours of symptom onset. Supportive care includes rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications to relieve symptoms. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required to manage complications like pneumonia or respiratory distress.

risk factors for swine flu (h1n1 influenza)

Several factors can increase the risk of contracting swine flu. These include being in close contact with infected individuals, having a weakened immune system due to chronic health conditions such as asthma or diabetes, being pregnant, or being under the age of 5 or over 65. Additionally, people who work in healthcare settings or live in crowded environments may have a higher risk of exposure.

how does the swine flu virus spread?

The H1N1 virus spreads similarly to seasonal flu. When an infected person coughs or sneezes, the virus becomes airborne. People nearby can inhale the droplets or touch contaminated surfaces, then touch their face and become infected. Individuals may not realize they are contagious until a day after infection and can remain contagious for up to 7 days. Children can be contagious for up to 10 days. It’s important to note that swine flu cannot be contracted from eating pork products like ham or bacon.

symptoms of swine flu

We typically tend to ignore these common symptoms and fail to prevent the disease from affecting us and spreading further.

The first step towards prevention of a disease is being aware of its existence. The first step towards curing it is not disregarding its symptoms.

The most common symptoms indicative of H1N1 that quite a lot of people ignore are:

• Unexpected fever of 38℃ or 100.4℉ or more
• Dry and chesty cough
• Headache
• Feeling of weakness and tiredness
• Experiencing chill
• Throbbing muscles
• Pain in the joints or limbs
• Abdominal cramps or diarrhoea
• Vomiting and nausea
• Sore throat
• Blocked or runny nose
• Not feeling hungry
• Constant sneezing
• Having difficulty falling asleep
• Watery and red eyes

which h1n1 symptoms should make me visit the er?

For children:

• Fever with rashes
• Flu symptoms get better but come back with a torrid fever and bad cough
• Irritable child who doesn’t even want to be comforted
• Sleeping continuously without waking or disinclined to interact
• Not taking sufficient fluids
• The skin has a bluish tinge
• Has trouble breathing or breathing rapidly.

For adults:

• Feeling shortness of breath or has difficulty breathing
• Feeling pressure in abdomen or chest
• Sudden dizziness
• Feeling confused
• Severe vomiting
• Flu symptoms return back with fever and bad cough.

people who are more likely to contract the h1n1 virus than most

Swine Flu virus is not severe enough to cause great worry and can be cured with a bit of bed rest and loading up on fluids.

It has still proved fatal for a few high-risk individuals.

People falling under these categories should be even more cautious about their health and the impending danger H1N1 poses for them.

They are pregnant ladies, young adults, and children.

Yearly, 30%-40% of school age going children fall sick because of the Influenza virus. They are typically aged between 5-19 years of age.

Also, the Swine Flu virus is more harmful for those who are suffering from chronic conditions like:

• asthma,
• lung or heart disease,
• people on immunosuppressants ,
• and kidney diseases.

Immunity lowering conditions like HIV, diabetes and chemotherapy cause the person to contract this flu easily.

Such people should be more vigilant regarding the spread of the disease and more cautious towards their own health and not avoid any of the above mentioned symptoms.

who else can be affected with the h1n1 virus besides the high-risk individuals?

Some other people who are susceptible to falling sick because of the swine flu virus are:

• Residents of chronic-care and nursing facilities.
• American Indians or Natives of Alaska.
• Obese people, whose BMI is over 40.
• Health-care professionals.
• Household contact and caregivers to the sick, especially if they fall under the high-risk category.

what should i do if i fall sick because of swine flu?

• In case you are already experiencing the aforementioned symptoms, the chances are, you are already sick.
• Don’t panic! Visit a doctor, get appropriate medicines, rest, drink plenty of fluids, and most importantly – stay indoors.
• In case you fall under the high-risk to Swine Flu, it is imperative to consult a doctor and not rely on home remedies!!
• To avoid any unforeseen situations, one should be aware of the underlying risks posed by the H1N1 virus.
• One, it is extremely contagious and second, it affects the youngsters more than the old ones.

what about preventive  vaccinations?

• It is better if one takes the available preventive  Swine Flu shot just like the  vaccination for seasonal flu, regularly.
• It is available in a nasal spray alternative as well. Its effects are slower than a shot, but still effective.
• According to the CDC, a Pneumonia vaccine after getting the Swine Flu shot is essential. Analysis of H1N1 deaths have revealed that a number of cases had two infections leading to complications and deaths.
• The second infection is caused by the pneumococcus bacteria, which leads to ear infections and meningitis.
• Prevnar is now part of the scheduled vaccinations given to children. Pneumovax vaccine is given for preventing pneumonia in adults.
• For people 65 and over, trivalent shot having 60 mcg of antigen hemagglutinin for every strain of the Swine Flu virus has been recently brought back from inactivity.

 what should i do to prevent the spread of h1n1?

To avoid contamination, proper cleaning of surfaces coming in contact with the infection should be undertaken.

According to studies, the Influenza virus can survive being out in an open environment for a maximum of up to 8 hours and infect a healthy person.

• The Swine Flu virus can’t survive a temperature as high as 167℉ – 212℉ or 75℃ – 100℃.
• Chemicals like hydrogen peroxide, chlorine, non-organic germicides, and other products like alcohols, iodine-rich antiseptics, and detergents, are effective against the influenza virus in humans.

Their effectiveness depends on the concentration of the solution and the duration of usage.

• In case soap, water, or alcohol based substances are not available for cleaning, hand sanitizers can do in a pinch!
• Desks, doorknobs, books, utensils, etc. are most likely to become the unintentional virus carriers.
• Children’s toys, kitchen and bathroom counters, beside tables, should be wiped cleaned by household disinfectants.
• Last but not the least, keep washing your hands regularly and avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.

h1n1 preventive medication

Preventive medications like Relenza, Tamiflu, or Rapivab can be effective if taken within 48 hours of symptom onset. These antiviral drugs help reduce the severity and duration of symptoms. Note that antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections like H1N1. Over-the-counter medications should be used cautiously, especially in children under 18, as aspirin can cause Reye’s Syndrome.

how to book vaccination at home

At home vaccination offers a convenient and straightforward way to stay up-to-date on your immunizations. Here’s a quick overview of the process:

1. Schedule: Simply contact a reputable home vaccination service. They will guide you through the available vaccines and answer any questions you may have. Once you’ve chosen the right vaccination, you can schedule a convenient appointment time for the home visit.
2. Nurse Visit: On the scheduled day of home visit vaccination, a qualified healthcare professional will visit your home. They will review your medical history and ensure you’re eligible for the chosen vaccine. After administering the vaccination, they will monitor you for any immediate reactions.
3. Post-vaccination Guidance: The healthcare professional will provide you with detailed instructions on post-vaccination care, including any potential side effects to watch for. They will also answer any questions you may have about the vaccination or your overall health.
4. Next-dose Reminders: The home vaccination service will keep track of your vaccination schedule and may send you reminders for any upcoming booster doses you might need to ensure long-term immunity.

portea’s other services

Portea’s comprehensive services, from doctor consultations, physiotherapy, nursing home care, nursing care, trained attendants.diagnostics, medical equipment, caretakers and vaccination service ensure that all your healthcare needs are met with professionalism and care. Whether you need to buy or seek assistance,rely on us for top-tier healthcare solutions tailored to your requirements. Portea is your trusted partner in health.

faq’s 

1. How Can I Save Myself From Getting Infected With Swine Flu?

• There are several ways you can prevent yourself from falling prey to the H1N1 virus.
• The first and most important one is to build up your immune system with proper diet and rest and prepare it for fighting such viruses.
• The next is to be aware of any outbreaks of the disease in your region. Then you can be prepared accordingly.

2. How does H1N1 flu manifest itself?

H1N1 flu symptoms often resemble those of seasonal flu or common colds. Symptoms typically appear within 1-3 days of exposure and may include fever, dry cough, headache, body aches, chills, muscle pain, joint pain, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, sore throat, and a runny or blocked nose. Although most people recover within a week, some may experience lingering cough and fatigue for up to two weeks.

3. How is swine flu (H1N1) prevented?

Prevention of swine flu involves several strategies. Vaccination is the most effective method, with annual flu vaccines including protection against H1N1. Good hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing with soap and water, using hand sanitizer, and avoiding close contact with sick individuals, also help reduce the risk. Additionally, covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow and staying home when sick can prevent the spread of the virus.

4. When should I see my healthcare provider?

You should consult your healthcare provider if you experience symptoms of swine flu, especially if they are severe or worsening. Early medical advice is crucial if you have underlying health conditions, are pregnant, or are very young or elderly, as these groups are at higher risk for complications. Seek medical attention promptly if you experience difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain, or confusion.