by John Hewitt

Created on: April 29, 2009   Last Updated: April 30, 2009

The H1N1 is the strain of the influenza virus that is usually the cause for influenza in humans. This strain has its variations and H1N1 strains can also be endemic in pigs and birds. Flu virus have a dubious talent of being able to mix and match with each other thereby producing mutant strains. the H1N1 strain that we are seeing on the news at the moment seems to contain the genetic material of the viruses in humans, pigs and birds together. This particular strain seems to have the characteristics of swine, flu, bird flu and human flu together.

The other disturbing mutation is that not only can the virus transfer from pig to human but it can also mutate to be transferred from human to human. This seems to be the case with the swine flu outbreak that we are seeing at the moment. Since the symptoms seem to behave like the usual seasonal influenza then diagnosis seems to be based on swine flu outbreaks in the area specific to the patient.

It spreads just like the seasonal human influenza through coughing and sneezing and through touching of contaminated surfaces and then touching the nose or mouth. With this in mind, the prevention is the usual coughing or sneezing into a handkerchief and then disposing, washing hands regularly and avoiding contact with surfaces that have the flu virus. Also general prevention through healthy diet, adequate sleep and good diet does play a part as this keeps the immune system healthy and active.

Cases in the USA seem to be less severe than those of Mexico. This could be that people there are seeking treatment at a later stage or there could be a second unrelated virus in those areas. The treatment seems to be effective ,especially in the early stages, with the Tamiflu and Relenza drugs.

The World Health Organization has raised the pandemic alert from 3 to four, with six being the highest. this does not mean thought that a pandemic is inevitable. This means that the likelihood has increased and that there are more cases of person to person transference.

Health Secretary Alan Johnson in the United Kingdom has made three important points regarding swine flu and travel.

He stated : "First, it is important to emphasise that in all cases outside Mexico, the symptoms of this illness are mild and all patients have made a full recovery. Second, we can all take simple measures to prevent infection, in particular covering the nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing and washing hands regularly. Anyone who develops flu-like symptoms should go home and contact their GP. Third, anyone who has recently travelled to the affected areas and is experiencing influenza-like illness should stay at home to limit contact with others and seek medical advice by phone from a local health professional or NHS Direct."

It seems then that more cases are being reported and also that cases outside of Mexico seem to be less severe. For further information contact your local government website and visit the World Health Organization website to keep up to date with the events.

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