Swine Influenza, the H1N1 Virus: Dangers and Challenges

Swine flu (which is often referred to as the H1N1 Virus) is not a new virus, even though recently it has become more dangerous. This year a new strain of the H1N1 virus appeared and, unlike some previous strains, became infectious of humans. How is the swine flu transmitted? This can happen by touching an object that has been sneezed at or touched by someone who has been infected with the virus.

Although the mortality rate has been very low, and in fact, it is expected that a vaccine will be created in the next few months, there is a great concern that the virus will mutate, not only rendering the treatment ineffective, but also potentially becoming far more dangerous.

The symptoms of swine flu resemble ordinary influenza: high fever, sore throat, fatigue and chills. Consequently, it is not unlikely that many people have been infected and overcame the swine flu virus and are unaware of it. Although some healthy people have died, the people most vulnerable are those with damaged immune systems as well as elderly or children.

The best way to avoid swine flu is basically identical to preventing any virus: wash your hands with soap whenever you can, sanitize them, try and avoid places where infected people have been seen. It is also necessary to cook any infected pork meat for it to not be infectious anymore (though ideally it should be avoided completely).

As for treatments, as mentioned, a vaccine is on its way. Until then, if any swine flu symtoms are in fact apparent and swine flu is confirmed, the CDC recommends Tamiflu or Relezna, though it is likely that most infected people will not require any treatment at all.

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