Swine Flu: It’s not far away from us

Jan 27, 2019 Dr Zulfikar Bux, Features / Columnists

By Dr. Zulfikar Bux
Assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine
Swine flu or medically known as the H1N1 influenza, is a form of the flu virus, but causes infections that can be more debilitating and life-threatening. It is not the same as seasonal flu. The first outbreak occurred in 2009 and infected people all over the world. It was called swine flu early on, because tests showed that it was like flu viruses that occur in swine (pigs). There is currently a mini outbreak of swine flu in Trinidad and Tobago. Unfortunately, it has caused a few deaths in that country. We are now on the alert in Guyana, and it’s only best that I highlight some details on this deadly viral infection.

WHAT ARE SYMPTOMS OF SWINE FLU?
Symptoms start 3 to 5 days after exposure to the virus. On average, they last about 8 days. Common symptoms are similar to those from any viral infection and include:
• fever
• sore throat
• cough
• muscle aches
• headache
• chills
• fatigue
• runny or stuffy nose
• vomiting
• diarrhea.
Babies and children may have different symptoms. Look for these signs:
• trouble breathing
• fever combined with a rash
• confusion or impatience
• trouble waking up
• not drinking enough fluids
• flu-like symptoms that go away and then return with a fever and cough.

WHAT CAUSES SWINE FLU?
A virus causes swine flu. It spreads from person to person. You cannot get it by eating pork or pork products. It spreads the same way as human flu, through coughs and sneezes, or by touching a contaminated surface and then touching the nose or mouth.

HOW IS SWINE FLU DIAGNOSED?
Your doctor will do a physical exam and review your symptoms. This alone may alert them that you have swine flu. Testing for the disease may take a few days to come back. Your doctor may want to start treatment right away and not wait for results. This is common if there is a swine flu outbreak in your area and lots of people are infected.

CAN SWINE FLU BE PREVENTED?
The best way to avoid swine flu is to get the flu vaccine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that anyone 6 months of age or older receive the flu vaccine. People who work in health care should get the vaccine. So should anyone who lives with or takes care of children younger than 6 months of age. The vaccine is costly, and since there is no outbreak in Guyana, there is no dire need to get vaccinated at this time.
You can prevent getting and spreading swine flu virus by practicing good hygiene and care as you would when you are trying to avoid catching the regular flu.

WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU’RE DIAGNOSED WITH THE SWINE FLU?
Your doctor will admit and isolate you in a hospital to prevent spread of the virus. You will receive antiviral treatment and treatment to help you with your symptoms. The following are complications that can occur from the infection:
• Worsening of chronic conditions, such as heart disease and asthma
• Pneumonia (serious lung infection)
• Symptoms that can affect your nervous system such as confusion and seizures (fits)
• Unable to breathe by yourself
Any of these complications can lead to death. Early detection and treatment is key. If you suspect that you, or anyone you know, have symptoms of swine flu, get medical help immediately. This can prevent an outbreak and potentially save many lives.

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