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The Swine flu is a medical condition that is similar to the flu – it is caused by a type of Influenza virus. This type of virus from a class of viruses called Orthomyxoviruses.

There are 5 main types of this virus and the swine influenza is a subtype of one of the 5.

Influenza A is the major player in many flu symptoms and epidemics each year and the Swine flu is a type of Influenza A.

As history has shown this type of virus can be very dangerous. Caution should be prudent and the Swine Flu was categorized as a Pandemic in 2009.

Swine Flu Virus -the name

–  Some viruses can affect only animals and some affect both animals and humans
–  This specific virus has some Swine DNA and can affect both pigs and humans
–  It can be referred to as Swine-Origin Influenza A (H1N1)
–  Was changed by CDC to Influenza A H1N1 from the Swine Flu

Previous Swine Flu Incidents

–  Unfortunately yes
–  The Spanish Flu of 1918 saw the death of over 50 million people due to a Swine influenza
–  It was somewhat different in subtype then the current virus of 2009
–  Influenza C can also be found in swine but is not at risk during this outbreak
–  It is typically rather rare

Symptoms:

–  Fever
–  Chills
–  Sore Throat
–  Cough
–  Nasal congestion
–  Muscle aches
–  Fatigue
–  Diarrhea
–  Vomiting
*** – These are non-specific symptoms and may be another virus or type of infection all together

Diagnosis

–  Real time PT-PCR
–  Rapid Flu –  checks only for Influenza A and Influenza B

Other types of influenza virus

1.)   Swine Influenza
2.)  Avian [Bird] Influenza
3.)  Horse Influenza
4.)  Dog Influenza

Prevention is the key

–  Wash hands
–  Limit touching face and eyes
–  Limit contact with those who are sick
–  Don’t overreact

Vaccination

–  Vaccines are available currently for the Swine Flu
–  The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the Swine flu vaccine on September 15, 2009
–  Single dose vaccine is adequate
–  Protection takes about 10 for adequate antibody production

Treatment

1.)  Rest

2.)  Supportive Care

• Fluids
• Sleep
• Medications for symptoms

3.)  Medications

Tamiflu   (Oseltamivir)
Relenza   (Zanamivir

2009 Virus has been found to be resistant to:  Amantadine and Rimantadine

Hospitalization

–  Certain patients or individuals symptoms will be beyond that of the “typical” flu outbreak
–  When this occurs – hospitalization visit may be necessary
–  Occurs in approximately 1% of the cases
–  Work closely with your medical provider to determine if this is necessary

References include:

CDC:   http://www.cdc.gov
Wikipedia:   http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Human_flu