Swine flu
The seasonal flu, caused by a virus that emerged from 2009 to 2019, resulted in a global outbreak.
The scientific term for swine flu is A/H1N1pdm09. It’s usually shortened to “H1N1”.
Symptoms
H1N1 virus signs are similar to infections caused by other flu strains and can include the following:
- Fever, but not always
- Chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Watery, red eyes
- Body pain
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
Symptoms of flu develop fully about one to three days after exposure to the virus.
Causes
Eating pork does not cause this condition.
The H1N1 Influenza virus infects cells in your respiratory tract, paving the way for the entry of the virus from a contaminated surface to your body.
When to consult the doctor
Seek medical aid if you have other chronic diseases like diabetes, heart issues, asthma, or emphysema because these can lead to high complications.
Emergency signs include;
- Shortness of breath
- Chest ache
- Dizziness
- Seizures
- Severe tiredness or muscle pain
Preventing flu
The (CDC)Centers for Disease Control and Prevention insist on annual flu vaccination for everyone.
These measures help prevent the flu and limit its spread:
- Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly. Use soap to wash and use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer after you handle things
- Cover up your coughs and sneezes.
- Often don’t touch your face
- Sterile surfaces. Regularly clean surfaces to prevent the spread of infection
- Avoid contact. Stay away from crowds if possible. Avoid physical contact with sick people
Reviewed by – Dr. Priyanka, MBBS MD Microbiology
Page last reviewed: 04 October 2022