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Swine Flu – means flu in a Pig. Swine (Pig) Influenza is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses that causes regular outbreaks in pigs. It is a viral infection in pigs.

Humans normally do not get swine flu, but human infections can and do happen, like in the current epidemic in Mexico and the USA.

Is the Swine Flu contagious?

It is thought that the swine flu is contagious and currently is spreading from human to human. There have been confirmed cases from Mexico, USA and UK.

Symptoms of Swine Flu

The symptoms of swine flu are:-

•fever,

•cough,

•sore throat,

•body aches,

•headache,

•chills

•fatigue.

•diarrhea and vomiting

•People die of severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure).

Mode of Spread of Swine Flu

Swine Flu is spread by way of nose drops. Secretions coming out of the nose, lungs and upper respiratory tract of an infected person during a cough or sneeze are thought to responsible.

Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.

Measures to Prevent Spread of Swine Flu

At present there is no vaccine available against Swine Flu. The following measures will help to protect your health.

First and foremost

•Wash Hands with soap & water. Although alcohol gel also seems to be effective, washing with soap & water is universally and easily available.

• Avoid close contact with infected person.

•Cover your nose & mouth when coughing/sneezing. Try to use a tissue to cover your mouth & nose and throw the tissue into the trash immediately. If using hands to cover while coughing, make sure to wash them immediately. Contaminated hands will spread the virus, if you touch any other surface before cleaning.

•Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.

•If you get sick with flu, stay home from work and limit contact with others to avoid spreading infection.

What do I do if I feel sick?

•If worried or feeling sick, visit local hospital or your doctor.

Can I get swine flu from eating or preparing pork?

No. Swine influenza viruses are not spread by food. Current evidence suggests that you cannot get swine influenza from eating pork or pork products. Eating properly handled and cooked pork products is safe.