by John G Thomas

Created on: April 30, 2009

The sudden and dramatic reporting of the latest swine flu pandemic may have left most people fearing infection and running for the hills, but do not panic yet as there are ways that you can help minimize your chances of infection if swine flu does reach your area.

Swine flu or H1N1 is a strain of influenza found in pigs. It is very rare that the virus can be passed on from pigs to humans but rare cases have been known, mainly in people working in contact with pigs. Swine flu is a variation of the virus that can be passed between humans.

Just like the regular flu epidemic we see each year, this virus spreads in the same way. To help minimize the risk of infection you will need to follow the same procedures that you would to combat regular flu.

Swine flu can be passed on through coughing and sneezing as the particles spread through the air and land or surfaces or come into direct contact with other people. If you have the flu then make sure that stay away from public places such as work. This will help to stop further spreading of the swine flu virus. Washing your hands regularly with soap and water and using alcohol based sanitizer scrubs will also help to kill any bacteria bearing the virus. This will ensure that your hands are clean as flu can be spread through contact with your mouth, eyes and nose.

In high risk areas it is advised to wear surgical style masks that will keep you from inhaling any airborne bacteria containing the virus.

If a pandemic does arise then it is advised to stay away from all public gatherings. This has already taken place in Mexico and many large activities such as gigs, sporting events, public speaking, and schools have been closed until the pandemic is bought under control.

The centre for disease control and prevention has suggested that taking Tamiflu and Relenza will help fight the virus as they are anti viral drugs. The good news is that most cases of swine flu will result in a full recovery without need for medical help. It is however recommended that if you do start to suffer any of the symptoms and you are in a high risk area then you should contact a doctor immediately.

In the meantime pharmaceutical companies are looking for a swine flu vaccination but this is proving to be quite a challenge as the influenza virus mutates.

By following the simple steps you would take against regular flu, you can help to minimize the chances of swine flu infection.

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