Recently, the number of deaths has been on a rise here in Malaysia when it came to the A(H1N1) flu. At this moment, it stands at 11 deaths in total. This is a very serious issue indeed... A funny thing is that, there are still people who don't really know what A(H1N1) is. So, I have decided to write a little post on it.
Intro to A(H1N1) Influenza
Since April 2009, the world has been on high alert as the (A)H1N1 flu pandemic slowly spreads across the globe. On the 11th of June 2009, WHO (World Health Organization) has declared the A(H1N1) flu, a pandemic. Its alert level was risen to phase 6, making it the first global pandemic ever since the 1968 Hong Kong Flu.
What is A(H1N1) Influenza
A(H1N1) is a new influenza virus that was first detected in the United States. It was initially called "Swine Flu" but its was later confirmed that it wasn't "Swine Flu". It was instead an assortment of 4 different A-type influenza strains. These 4 strains have been known to be, one endemic to humans, one strain of "Avian Flu" (Bird Flu), and two different strains of "Swine Flu". The virus is said to have originated from Mexico.
The virus spreads from person to person, probably in the same way the normal seasonal influenza spreads. This would basically mean contact with people with the virus and them coughing or sneezing. In rare cases, touching something that has been exposed with the virus and later touching ones mouth or nose could led to contraction of the virus.
Symptoms of A(H1N1) Influenza
Symptoms of the A(H1N1) influenza virus would include:
- Fever - Especially if the fever is above 100 degrees
- Sore Throat
- Cough
- Chills & Fatigue
- Body Aches & Head Aches
- Vomiting & Diarrhea (This doesn't happen to everyone, but there have been reports of patients having these symptoms as well.)
- Difficulty in breathing
*Note* - The elderly (above 65), young children (below 6), pregnant women, and those who have chronic medical conditions (asthma, diabetes, heart problems, etc.), have a higher risk of contracting the influenza.
Prevention & Treatment
Sadly, there is no vaccine that can be taken for the A(H1N1) influenza has of yet. Works are still in progress in completing a vaccine. But it doesn't mean there is no hope at all.
There are many ways to prevent the virus from spreading and contracting it. Such prevention methods are:
- Covering your mouth/nose when you sneeze or cough with a tissue and disposing of the tissue properly afterwards.
- Washing your hands properly and often with soap and water (wash for about 15-20 seconds). Alcohol based hand cleaners are also effective.
- Avoid touching your mouth, nose, or face for germs can spread this way.
- Try avoiding people who are already sick.
- If you are already sick, stay home for about 7 days from the day you contracted the virus or you are symptom free for 24-hours, whichever comes first.
There are also medication that you can take if you have contracted the virus. Such medications are:
Antiviral drugs - These drugs prevent the virus from reproducing in your body. (Please research the drugs and also get your doctors/pharmacist consent before taking any)
Type of antiviral drugs are (but not limited to):-
Oseltamivir and Zanamivir
Finally, if you have any of these symptoms, DO NOT PANIC! Consult your doctor and take all prevention methods mentioned. Get enough rest and try not to get in contact with other people. Take proper medication and everything should be fine. Take care to all and I hope this post will be some help to all of you. Stay healthy! =)
I hope A(H1N1) influenza will not come back ever again.
Kevin
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