Saturday, July 4, 2009

Pig Influenza Virus - Facts About This Nasty Bug

By Paul Mancini

Swine flu is a virus that attacks the human immune system which in turn can cause serious secondary illnesses. In extreme cases the victim can die. This flu gets its name from a type of flu virus that affects swine. Of course N1H1 virus resembles that of the one that infects pigs. The abbreviation H1N1 is the official name of the virus and is derived from the medical terms hemaglutinin type 1 and neuraminidase type 1.

There was a misconception that humans could catch N1H1 influenza via the intake of pork and though the name is derived from the animal, it is now known that well cooked pork products are safe for human consumption.

N1H1 is transmitted like any other type of flu virus. You can contract the virus from contaminated utensils, particles in the air, direct contact with an infected person or their items. Due to this fact, it isn't enough to simply wear a surgical mask alone - you should thoroughly clean your hands before eating so you do not contract the virus. N1H1 influenza virus can live on clothing for over 10 hours and on less porous surfaces for 48 hours. The usual emphasis on surgical masks is because you can avoid holding an object but you can't refrain from breathing the air that surrounds you.

If a person has swine flu they will start to show the symptoms of regular influenza. These people will display fever and cough. These folks may suffer from respiratory difficulties and may have a headache. In many cases, they will feel cool and clammy and may vomit.

For medical personnel in endemic areas or working in close proximity with infected people, a flu mask will provide the best barrier to airborne contamination as it has special filters to sieve off the virus and neutralize it.

Since N1H1 is primarily spread through the air, overcrowding should be avoided in areas where there are reported cases. If you are not part of the emergency response then you should stay away from such places.

There are many types of N95 face masks used to prevent infection. The kind you choose will depend on your situation and how comfortable you will be in wearing them. You can go for the style that has two straps for attachment to the head. There are also those with an adjustable nasal bridge. There are yet others that have a one way valve to enable you to breathe more easily. Another type has a pair of ear loops.

There are many ways to pig flu. The most common are with the use of retro viral medications such as Tamiflu. Many victims are able to recover without the need for medication at all. Efforts are being made to try to develop a vaccination so that people can be protected effectively in advance, but that may take some time, as trials are ongoing.

In the unlikely event of pig influenza virus epidemic, you need to try to stay calm and also keep yourself updated with local updates. Follow the directives given by local health officials and keep away from crowded locations.

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