The regional Department of Health announced that there are two confirmed swine flu virus cases in the Cordillera from among the 14 persons who sought medical attention after showing signs and symptoms of Influenza A H1N1. But it was confirmed that there was a first person confirmed to have been afflicted with Influenza A H1N1 who is now on stable condition.
Last week, there was also text messages received by my mother and my brother on their cell phones that Swine Flu has already reached Baguio City. The patients were confined at BGH Baguio and Pines Hospital.
What is Influenza A H1N1?
- It is caused by a novel virus that resulted from the re assortment of 4 viruses from pigs, human and birds.
- It is a new virus causing illness to people
- I think it was first detected in Mexico
- The virus is spreading from person to person, probably in much the same way that regular seasonal influenza viruses spread
- There is no vaccines yet to protect humans from the virus
- There are existing and recommended medicines that are effective in treating these Influenza A H1N1
- Influenza A H1N1 can be fatal to humans
What are the signs and symptoms in humans?
- similar to the symptoms of regular flu such as fever, headache, fatique, muscle or joint pains, lack of appetite, runny nose, sore throat, cough, vomiting or nausea, diarrhea.
What is the mode of transmission of the virus?
- Exposure to droplets from the cough and sneeze of the infected person, or by touching things with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.
- It is not transmitted by eating thoroughly cooked pork.
What can I do to protect myself from getting sick?
- Cover your nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing. Always wash hands with soap and water. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers. Avoid close contact with sick people. Increase your body's resistance. Have at least 8 hours of sleep. Be physically active. Manage your stress. Drink plenty of fluids. Eat nutritious food.
What to do if there is a sick person at home?
- Immediately bring the sick person to a doctor. Provide a separate room in the house. If this is not possible, keep the patient at least 1 meter away from the family. Use surgical mask when caring for the sick person. Wash your hands with soap and water thoroughly after each contact with the sick person. Have proper ventilation where the sick person stays. Keep the environment clean.
BE VIGILANT!
If you have a fever for 2 days, immediately consult a doctor.....
The first line of defense for families against the swine flu revolves around understanding the facts about swine flu and some good old common sense practices to limit the spread and exposure to H1N1. Find this and more as you read The Facts About Swine Flu - You Need to Know Now.
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