Swine Flu Symptoms and Treatment

Swine Flu or the so called H1N1 Virus first became a news in 2009 when it was spread in Mexico. The flu virus which usually infects humans is different from the one that infects the pigs. But those who work closely with pigs in the pig farms often get flu from each other, but it remained a local infection and never spread to large populations until the 2009 Mexico outbreak. After that this infection became worldwide people became aware of this kind of flu. As it was an infection commonly found in pigs with the same symptoms of flu, people called it swine flu.

Swine Flu Symptoms in Adults

Swine Flu symptoms resemble to seasonal flu. Following symptoms may occur.

• Cough
• Fever
• Runny or Stuffy nose
• Headache
• Sore throat
• Muscle pain
• Chills
• Vomiting or Diarrhoea

Even if any one of these occur then it may be swine flu. Number of symptoms increase with severity.

Swine Flu Symptoms in Kids
Symptoms in Kids is same as seasonal flu. If you feel that kid is getting high fever or being irritating then you must consult a doctor.

How does Swine Flu Spreads ?

This disease can spread through air. If you are near an infected person then you may get the virus through air or through a tiny droplet of sneeze or cough. If a person in infected by this virus then it may take 1 to 4 days to develop the symptoms. An infected person can start spreading the virus 24 hours before appearance of symptoms and continue to do so after 5 to 7 days after the symptoms are developed.

Who is at risk of Swine Flu ?

However Swine Flu can infect person of any age and sex but a few groups are at more risk as the H1N1 virus can do more harm in these groups. These groups are

• People with weakened immune systems
• Children below three years of age
• Adults above 60 years of age
• Pregnant women
• People already suffering from heart disease, lung disease, asthma or diabetes

Swine Flu Prevention

Swine Flu prevention can  be done by avoiding exposure to the H1N1 Virus. It can be done by taking following precautionary measures.

• Avoid touching things at a public place
• Washing hands more frequently, especially if have been to a public place or touched some things which is accessible to others such as door handles.
• Avoid touching your face, especially nose and mouth
• Don't go near a person showing symptoms of flu.
• Clean your door handles and other touchable items with some disinfectant regularly and H1N1 virus may survive on such surfaces for upto 48 hours. 

Foods that prevent Swine Flu

A good immune system is best to save you from swine flu. So you may eat foods rich in protein, vitamin C and Zinc, which help in building a healthy immune system. Green Vegetables, orange fruits (such as carrots, pumpkins, apricots, and mangoes) and protein rich diet can help you in saving yourself from Swine Flu.

Swine Flu Treatment

Swine Flu treatment is usually same as seasonal flu. But its better to consult a doctor and let him decide which treatment is best for you. Vaccine to prevent you from getting H1N1 infection is also available in market. The groups listed above who are at higher risk of swine flu need special attention of medical practitioners. People with healthy immune system and good resistance power can easily recover from this infection. Apart from antiviral medication and pain relievers doctors may suggest rest and plenty of fluids to save you from dehydration.