Indian Medical Association (IMA) in view with the WHO (World Health Organization) and Ministry of Health, Govt. of India, says that there is no need to panic with the current rising toll of swine flu (H1N1 influenza) as it can be treated as normal flu. According to the recent statistical evidence by the Health Ministry, swine flu death toll crossed 800 with total number of affected persons nearing the 13,000 mark. Read more about swine flu – causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and prevention.
Indian Medical Association (IMA) in view with the WHO (World Health Organization) and Ministry of Health, Govt. of India, says that there is no need to panic with the current rising toll of swine flu (H1N1 influenza) as it can be treated as normal flu. According to the recent statistical evidence by the Health Ministry, swine flu death toll crossed 800 with total number of affected persons nearing the 13,000 mark. Read more about swine flu – causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and prevention.
The IMA committee comprised experts Dr Anupam Prakash, Dr Charanjit Singh, Dr N K Yadav and Dr K K Aggarwal. Here are few public guidelines from IMA which everyone ought to know to deal with swine flu epidemic –
Swine flu symptoms – what you should know?
Swine flu is like ordinary flu and is characterised by symptoms such as fever, cough, body ache, malaise (weakness and discomfort) and sore throat. Some people might also experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and skin rash. Although the symptoms might last for 1 – 2 weeks, anyone experiencing severe breathlessness and blood on coughing should immediately consult a doctor. Here is detailed explanation about symptoms of swine flu.
Apart from this, people suffering from coryza (also known as rhinitis) i;e, inflammation of the mucous membrane present in the nose along with breathlessness, should be admitted to the hospital (isolated) and investigated for the virus. As influenza outbreaks occur intermittently (especially during changes in the temperature), one should be aware of its symptoms beforehand to stay protected. (Read: Is swine flu curable? )
Vaccinations – are they effective?
According to the guidelines, influenza vaccines can prevent flu caused by influenza virus affecting humans. It is majorly recommended for –
- Children above 6 months
- Pregnant women
- Healthcare providers
- Adults above 50 years of age
- People suffering from pulmonary disease, cardiovascular disease, kidney problems, liver disorder, neurological problems, blood disorders and diabetes mellitus.
Whereas, people between 2 – 49 years of age (excluding pregnant women) are given live attenuated vaccine through the nose (intranasal spray). Although seasonal vaccination does not offer effective protection against swine flu, they reduce the risk of getting infected with other non-human strains of the virus. Read about 10 facts about swine flu you should know.
Testing for swine flu
The Government has designated private as well as Government laboratories to get tested for Swine flu. Only positive cases from these labs are considered as confirmed cases of swine flu. Currently, Government labs are testing suspected swine flu patients (based on the symptoms) free of cost, whereas private hospitals are charging around Rs 5000 to diagnose swine flu. (Read: Swine flu treatment and medicines — Tamiflu, Relenza and more)
Prevention is the key to deal with swine flu
By following simple hygiene and sanitation measures for cough and respiratory problems, one can effectively prevent swine flu from spreading. Avoid coughing in the hands or handkerchiefs as the chances of spreading the infection is more in this case. Alternatively, one can cough on their shirt sleeves or in a tissue paper (which should be disposed off immediately). Here are 15 precautions every Indian should take to prevent swine flu.
Apart from this, one should wash their hands frequently, in case their hands are contaminated with the viral secretions or cough droplets. Here’s a list of few things that one should avoid to prevent swine flu –
- Do not touch your face, mouth or nose with your hands
- Stay away from people who are coughing, sneezing or suffering cold
- People suffering from swine flu should avoid going outdoors (stay indoors till one gets cured) Read about 10 dos and don’ts to prevent swine flu
- Avoid shaking hands (especially people suffering from flu or cough and cold)
- One should try to avoid getting out in crowded places
Treatment for swine flu — What to expect?
According to the guidelines, swine flu can be effectively managed at home, depending on the symptoms. Chemoprophylaxis (use of drugs) are normally recommended for people showing symptoms of swine flu, pregnant women and those suffering from various health issues like diabetes, cardiac illnesses, end-organ failures or respiratory problems. The antiviral medications that form the first-line of attack for treatment against swine flu include oseltamivir and zanamivir. You may also like to read, can eating chicken cause swine flu?
Originally published on www.thehealthsite.com
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