Swine Flu

Overview of Swine Flu!
The current influenza pandemic is named swine flu. It is caused by Influenza A virus, subtype H1N1, which usually affects pigs/hogs. Affected persons are not debilitated enough to be confined, enabling the virus to spread between continents, affecting susceptible individuals. Most people suffer to the mildest degree, resulting in the development of antibodies and no serious illness.
This virus is a strain of the 1918 flu pandemic, at which time, the virus is suspected to have travelled from humans to pigs. In 1976, 1988 and 2007, ‘flu epidemics have occurred. Pigs act as reservoirs of infection, humans being infected due to direct exposure. The current virus appears to have travelled from Mexico, to a pig farm in Alberta, Canada, detected in humans in April 2009.
Pigs are unusual in that, bird, human and other flu infections can co- exist in the same animal, resulting in dangerous exchange of genes, developing new virulent strains. Humans have no immunity to the present virus. It spreads from human to human through droplet infection, from coughing and sneezing. Deaths occur in infants, the elderly and chronically ill patients.
Because these symptoms are non specific, a suspicion of swine flu requires not only symptoms, but also a history of exposure. The diagnosis is considered in patients with acute febrile respiratory illness who have either been in contact with persons with confirmed swine flu, or who were in the geographical locations that have reported swine flu. A diagnosis requires laboratory testing of a respiratory sample (a simple nose and throat swab).
Prevention and control are along two parameters:
1. Swine management: Facility management includes using disinfectants to control virus in the environment. The virus is unlikely to survive outside the living cell for more than two weeks, except in cold (but above freezing) conditions and it is readily inactivated by disinfectants.
2. Human Control: Covering the nose and mouth while sneezing, coughing and discarding the tissue in the trash. Frequent washing of hands as well as the use of alcohol containing hand sanitizers Avoid touching the eyes, mouth or nose. If sick, confine yourself to the home, avoid spreading the contagion.
Vaccines should be available by June 2009 against the present strain. Antiviral drugs can make the disease milder, the patient feel better. Started within 2 days after symptoms appear these agents should augment, fluid management, rest and other palliative care . This article is created by suman.