Swine Flue Hoax

Unedited and unverified by me: forwarded as received.   1) Swine flue is the disease originated in Mexico Latin America  where large amount of pork is consumed.The   disease is also present in USA , Canada etc. where pork is consumed.    You are quite aware that pork is not at all popular in Pune.   2) Till date only 136 people are dead all over the world due to Swine flue within last one and half year.   3) The  swine flue virus thrives in the atmosphere below temp. of 27 degree Celsius and please note that  the temp. is 33 degree Celsius in Pune .   4)The most of the people died in Pune recently were having various other ailments and the real cause of the death is not swine flue.   5) The  swine flue virus grows in acidic medium and our saliva is alkaline and it is impossible that the virus will be alive in alkaline medium.   6) The swine flue tablets manufacturing co. is based at USA and its stock for India is unsold for last two-three years and the expiry date for the medicines is approaching very fast. The fear is created In Pune since the purchasing power of Pune is grown substantial recently in last 5 years  due to foreign  investment and development of software co.   7) The new vaccine is coming  up  in the market developed by the USA co. It will enter  in market within next three months and will be priced at Rs. 3000 /- .Look at the scope for selling in Pune for the population of 35 lacs people who are living under fear.Please note that the co. has taken patent for the vaccine so that no other co. can manufacture the same.   8) Please note that in India  daily 1500 people die due to Cancer and around similar no. due to TB but it has never  become headline or news on the front page.Then how swine flue has become the head line? The all news items are  paid advertisement   and obviously the next target is Mumbai.   9) Do you remember Hepatitis B vaccine drama which was played some years ago . Actually Hepatitis B is not at all existent  in India and only Hepatitis A is existent  in India. After High court verdict the manufacturing of Hep. B was stopped in India due to PIL filed by social activist in India.But till then the vaccine co. has generated crores of rupees.   10) In any case if any body is facing swine flue then pl. do not worry . You can take Arsenic Alb 200 ( homeopathic ) , Giloi(Gul wel) , Tulas and will be cured 100% as swine flue is curable disease.   11) Look at the loss of Pune for last 10 days for an amount of Rs. 5000 Crs  and do you want to loose further Rs. 3000 /- per vaccine per head in Pune for around 35 lacks people?

Swine Flu Presentation

See the Presentation:

http://docs.google.com/present/view?id=dghv9b6h_10dfvw4hc7

From India Today on Swine Flu

Precautions against swine flu

Here are a few simple dos and don'ts that will help prevent spreading the infection.

• Maintain hygiene, wash hands frequently.
  
• Avoid contact with those who cough and sneeze.
  
• Avoid crowded places and social gatherings.
  
• If there are any symptoms, contact the doctor immediately as the treatment drugs are not available in the open market.
  
• If infected, stay home and avoid travelling.
  
• Always cover mouth while coughing or sneezing, to avoid the disease from spreading.
  

 

Treatment of swine flu

The golden principle is no self-medication. Aspirin should not be taken for fever or body ache. Paracetamol can be taken for fever as per doctor's advice. Oseltamivir or Tamiflu should be taken only when prescribed by the doctor.

Remember, children need to be given a paediatric dose.

Those suffering from hypertension, diabetes, bronchial asthma, chronic bronchitis or obstructive airway diseases as well as pregnant women need to be extra careful.

A swine flu vaccine is being developed and the first lot is expected to be available by late august or early September.

Eat right to keep swine flu at bay

Apart from popping pills and exercising, it is equally important to eat right.

Fresh fruits and vegetables: They provide the body with an ample stock of vitamins and minerals. They also contain natural antioxidants and antibodies that strengthen immune system. Eat beans, dark-coloured fruits and vegetables like beetroot, spinach and broccoli.

Fish: Fish are a veritable mine of proteins. These allow your body to repair quickly from damages caused by viral attacks.

Citrus fruits: They are high on Vitamin C and E, which boost the immune system and stimulate the production of antibodies.

Bitter vegetables: They are important for the liver as they help to detoxify the body and boost the metabolism. Bitter gourd is a good option.

Alternative remedies to swine flu

Besides Tamiflu, these alternative remedies to prevent and treat the H1N1 influenza may be a good option for patients.

Homeopathy
Homeopathic medicines were successful in treating the flu pandemic in 1918. Homeopathy maybe a better option also because it has hardly any side-effects, say experts.

Gelsemium and Bryonia: Effective during 1918's outbreak. Homeopaths feel these could be useful in the current epidemic too.

Influenzinum: In a survey conducted by the French Society of Homeopathy in 1998, in 90 per cent of the 317 influenza patients surveyed, no instances of the flu occurred when influenzinum was used preventively.

Oscillococcinum: A homeopathic preparation of the liver and heart of a Barbary duck. In 1990, German experts found flu patients showed a noticeable improvement after about 48 hours of treatment with Oscillococcinum.

Yoga
Besides medicines, yoga may also prove to be a good option if one is trying to counter the H1N1 influenza.

Bhastrika Pranayam: Sit with legs stretched out, back straight. Bend one leg, place ankle on opposite thigh close to groin. Do the same to the other leg. Place your hands on knees. Take a deep breath, hold it and exhale. Repeat this 5-10 times till your breathing becomes even.

Kapal Bhati Pranayam: It's similar to the Bhastrika Pranayam, except the way you breathe. Exhale by pushing the stomach inside. Inhale with minimal effort. Repeat the process for about 15 minutes.

Ayurveda
Like homeopathy, ayurvedic medicines too show promise in treating swine flu without causing any side-effect.

Guduchi: Also known as Tinospora Cordifolia, this is a known flu preventive. It is an anti-viral which kills the H1N1 virus. Guduchi is commonly available and contains a substance called Giloine which is effective for strengthening the respiratory system.

Vasa: Also known as Adhatoda vasica, this medicine is also effective. It reduces obstruction or inflammation in airways and increases lung capacity. Besides, basil, turmeric and amla are extensively used to build immunity and are recommended along with the medication.

Advice on the use of masks1 in the community setting in Influenza A (H1N1) outbreaks

World health Organisation Interim guidance 3 May 2009 This document provides interim guidance on the use of masks in communities that have reported community-level outbreaks caused by the new Influenza A(H1N1) virus. It will be revised as more data become available. Background At present, evidence suggests that the main route of human-to-human transmission of the new Influenza A (H1N1) virus is via respiratory droplets, which are expelled by speaking, sneezing or coughing. Any person who is in close contact (approximately 1 metre) with someone who has influenza-like symptoms (fever, sneezing, coughing, running nose, chills, muscle ache etc) is at risk of being exposed to potentially infective respiratory droplets. In health-care settings, studies evaluating measures to reduce the spread of respiratory viruses suggest that the use of masks could reduce the transmission of influenza.2 Advice on the use of masks in health-care settings is accompanied by information on additional measures that may have impact on its effectiveness, such as training on correct use, regular supplies and proper disposal facilities. In the community, however, the benefits of wearing masks has not been established, especially in open areas, as opposed to enclosed spaces while in close contact with a person with influenza-like symptoms. Nonetheless, many individuals may wish to wear masks in the home or community setting, particularly if they are in close contact with a person with influenza-like symptoms, for example while providing care to family members. Furthermore, using a mask can enable an individual with influenza-like symptoms to cover their mouth and nose to help contain respiratory droplets, a measure that is part of cough etiquette. Using a mask incorrectly however, may actually increase the risk of transmission, rather than reduce it. If masks are to be used, this measure should be combined with other general measures to help prevent the human-to-human transmission of influenza, training on the correct use of masks and consideration of cultural and personal values. 1 The term "mask" is used here to include home-made or improvised masks, dust masks and surgical masks (sometimes called "medical masks"). Masks have several designs. They are often single use and labelled as either surgical, dental, medical procedure, isolation, dust or laser masks. Masks frequently used outside health-care settings may also be made out of cloth, or paper or similar material. Masks, names and standards differ among countries. 2 Jefferson T, Foxlee R, Del Mar C et al. Physical interventions to interrupt or reduce the spread of respiratory viruses: systematic review. BMJ 2008; 336;77-80. 2 General advice It is important to remember that in the community setting the following general measures may be more important than wearing a mask in preventing the spread of influenza. For individuals who are well: Maintain distance of at least 1 metre from any individual with influenza-like symptoms, and: • refrain from touching mouth and nose; • perform hand hygiene frequently, by washing with soap and water or using an alcoholbased handrub 3 , especially if touching the mouth and nose and surfaces that are potentially contaminated; • reduce as much as possible the time spent in close contact with people who might be ill; • reduce as much as possible the time spent in crowded settings; • improve airflow in your living space by opening windows as much as possible. For individuals with influenza-like symptoms: • stay at home if you feel unwell and follow the local public health recommendations; • keep distance from well individuals as much as possible (at least 1 metre); • cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, with tissues or other suitable materials, to contain respiratory secretions. Dispose of the material immediately after use or wash it. Clean hands immediately after contact with respiratory secretions! • improve airflow in your living space by opening windows as much as possible. If masks are worn, proper use and disposal is essential to ensure they are potentially effective and to avoid any increase in risk of transmission associated with the incorrect use of masks. The following information on correct use of masks derives from the practices in health-care settings4: • place mask carefully to cover mouth and nose and tie securely to minimise any gaps between the face and the mask • while in use, avoid touching the mask − whenever you touch a used mask, for example when removing or washing, clean hands by washing with soap and water or using an alcohol-based handrub • replace masks with a new clean, dry mask as soon as they become damp/humid • do not re-use single-use masks − discard single-use masks after each use and dispose of them immediately upon removing. Although some alternative barriers to standard medical masks are frequently used (e.g. cloth mask, scarf, paper masks, rags tied over the nose and mouth), there is insufficient information available on their effectiveness. If such alternative barriers are used, they should only be used once or, in the case of cloth masks, should be cleaned thoroughly between each use (i.e. wash with normal household detergent at normal temperature). They should be removed immediately after caring for the ill. Hands should be washed immediately after removal of the mask. 3 In settings where alcohol-based hand rubs are available and the safety concerns (such as fire hazards and accidental ingestion) are adequately addressed, their proper use (rubbing hands for 20–30 seconds) could be promoted as a means of disinfection. 4 Infection prevention and control of epidemic- and pandemic-prone acute respiratory diseases in health care WHO Interim

Everything you need to know about Swine Flu

India is grappling with a swine flu epidemic. There is heightened panic among people following reports of growing number of HIN1 cases and the recent death of a school child in Pune. Here's an FAQ on the dreaded virus:

How do people become infected with influenza A (H1N1)?

Outbreaks in humans are now occurring from human-to-human transmission. When infected people cough or sneeze, infected droplets get on their hands, drop onto surfaces, or are dispersed into the air. Another person can breathe in contaminated air, or touch infected hands or surfaces, and be exposed.

What are the signs and symptoms of infection?

Early signs of influenza A (H1N1) are flu-like, including fever, cough, headache, muscle and joint pain, sore throat and runny nose, and sometimes vomiting or diarrhoea. Like seasonal flu, swine flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.

Is there any confirmation of transmission between pigs and humans at this point?

No.

How soon can someone with the flu infect someone else?

Infected people may be able to infect others beginning one day before symptoms develop and up to seven or more days after becoming sick.

What surfaces are most likely to be sources of contamination?

Germs can be spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth. Droplets from a cough or sneeze of an infected person move through the air.

How long can viruses live outside the body?

We know that some viruses and bacteria can live two hours or longer on surfaces like cafeteria tables, doorknobs, and desks. Frequent hand washing will help you reduce the chance of getting contamination from these common surfaces.

What can I do to protect myself from getting sick?

Currently available seasonal influenza vaccine does not protect against H1N1 flu. There are everyday actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza. Take these everyday steps to protect your health:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
  


• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol based hand cleaners are also effective.
  


• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.. Germs spread this way.
  


• Try to avoid close contact with people having respiratory illness.
  


• If one gets sick with influenza, one must stay at home, away from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them. However, if one is having any respiratory distress, one should report to a nearby hospital.
  

What should I do to keep from getting the flu?

First and most important: wash your hands frequently. Try to stay in good general health. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food. Avoid touching surfaces that may be contaminated with the flu virus. Avoid close contact with people having respiratory illness.

Are there medicines to treat swine flu?

Yes. Oseltamivir is the recommended anti viral drug for the treatment and/or prevention of infection with the influenza A H1N1. If you get sick, antiviral drugs can make your illness milder and make you feel better faster.

They may also prevent serious flu complications. For treatment, antiviral drugs work best if started soon after getting sick (within 2 days of symptoms). The government has adequate stock and the drug is made available to government hospitals at the time of outbreak and would be available to you free of cost. The drug is to be administered under supervision of clinicians.

What should I do if I get sick?

If you live in areas where influenza A H1N1 cases have been identified and become ill with influenza like symptoms e.g. fever, body aches, runny nose, sore throat, nausea, or vomiting or diarrhea, you may contact their health care provider, particularly if you are worried about your symptoms.

Your health care provider will determine whether influenza testing or treatment is needed.

If you are sick, you should stay home and avoid contact with other people as much as possible to keep from spreading your illness to others. If you become ill and experience any of the following warning signs, seek emergency medical care.

In children emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:

• Fast breathing or trouble breathing
  


• Bluish skin color
  


• Not drinking enough fluids/eating food
  


• Not waking up or not interacting
  


• Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
  


• Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough
  


• Fever with a rash
  

In adults, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  


• Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
  


• Sudden dizziness
  


• Confusion
  


• Severe or persistent vomiting
  

Can I get influenza A H1N1 from eating or preparing pork?

No. swine influenza viruses are not spread by food. Eating properly handled and cooked pork products is safe.

DOs:

* Wash your hands
* Avoid crowded places
* Stay more than an arm's length from persons afflicted with flu
* Get plenty of sleep
* Drink plenty of water and eat nutritious food

1. Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or
sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. Use disposable
masks in airports, crowded markets.
2. Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after
you cough or sneeze
3. Use alcohol���based hand cleaners (e.g: Germ Free)
4. Try to avoid close contact with sick people
5. Always maintain high levels of personal hygiene, especially
before and after food preparation and in & out of toilets.
6. While in an affected region, seek immediate medical attention
if you develop influenza���like symptoms. (High Fever, body
pain, coughing and red nose)
7. Get plenty of sleep
8. Rest and take plenty of liquids
9. Drink plenty of water and eat nutritious food.

DO NOTs:

* Shake hands or hug in greeting
* Spit in public
* Take medicines without consulting a physician

1. Touch your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way
2. Visits live animal markets, poultry and pig farms.
3. Shake hands or hug in greeting
4. Spit in public
5.. Take medicines without consulting a physician
6. If you are sick, PLEASE stay at home and limit contact with
others as much as possible
7. Forget to cover your mouth and nose when you cough or
sneeze
8. Neglect yourself and seek medical advice if needed

For people who are sick:

* Stay home and limit contacts with others as much as possible
* Rest and take plenty of liquids
* Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze
* Seek medical advice if needed

Symptoms, Precautions, Treatment

Swine Flu Symptoms

Symptoms of swine flu infections can include:

* fever, which is usually high, but unlike seasonal flu, is sometimes absent
* cough
* runny nose or stuffy nose
* sore throat
* body aches
* headache
* chills
* fatigue or tiredness, which can be extreme
* diarrhea and vomiting, sometimes, but more commonly seen than with seasonal flu

Signs of a more serious swine flu infection might include pneumonia and respiratory failure.

Swine Flu High Risk Groups -

Swine flu high risk groups, people who are thought to be at risk for serious, life-threatening infections, are a little different and can include:

* pregnant women
* people with chronic medical problems, such as chronic lung disease, like asthma, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and immunosuppression
* children and adults with obesity

Precautions to keep swine flu at bay -

The deadly Swine Flu has reached the Indian shores following the global outbreak and now, claimed one life. However, Swine Flu is certainly one of those diseased where an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Here are five tips for you to keep away from the pandemic.

1. Wash your hands frequently

Use the antibacterial soaps to cleanse your hands. Wash them often, for at least 15 seconds and rinse with running water.

2. Get enough sleep

Try to get 8 hours of good sleep every night to keep your immune system in top flu-fighting shape.

3. Drink sufficient water

Drink 8 to10 glasses of water each day to flush toxins from your system and maintain good moisture and mucous production in your sinuses.

4. Boost your immune system

Keeping your body strong, nourished, and ready to fight infection is important in flu prevention. So stick with whole grains, colorful vegetables, and vitamin-rich fruits.

5. Keep informed

The government is taking necessary steps to prevent the pandemic and periodically release guidelines to keep the pandemic away. Please make sure to keep up to date on the information and act in a calm manner.

Treatment -

If a person becomes sick with swine flu, antiviral drugs can make the illness milder and make the patient feel better quicker. For treatment, antiviral drugs work best if started soon after getting sick (within 2 days of symptoms). The U.S. CDC recommends the use of Tamiflu (oseltamivir) or Relenza (zanamivir) for the treatment and/or prevention of infection with swine influenza viruses; however, the majority of people infected with the virus make a full recovery without requiring medical attention or antiviral drugs.

Vaccination -

WHO does not expect the swine flu vaccine to be widely available until the end of 2009, noting that current production "yield" was only about half as much as expected and would cause timeline delays. There is also concern that countries which produce vaccines, 70 percent of which are in Europe, may delay sending swine flu vaccines to other countries as they may come under "tremendous pressure to protect their own citizens first," note some experts.

Many countries are planning full blown large scale vaccination camps by the end of the year.

Symptoms

False propoganda

This product "Nutrilite" and the other products mentioned are manufactured by Quixtar and Amway (the same company which had chain of agents to sell their cosmetics).   Nutrilite is nothing but a dietary supplement and consists of few minerals, multi-vitamins and proteins.   Its been selling since long back but have never been known to have such curative powers.   I read somewhere in today's newspaper that the first of its kind (globally) antidote on swine flue is being developed in one of the Pune's Laboratory and how this fellow sending the mail has claimed that nutrilite cures swine flue is unknown. This could possibly be one of the cheap marketing strategies taking advantage of the chaos caused around. The product is otherwise costly and the commission which the agent earns is also handsome.   So request you all to be cautious before believing such advertisements and falling to such gimmicks. HAVE NUTRILITE & PREVENT AGAINST SWINE FLU Dear All,     We can help prevent Swine flu very effectively with the help of Nutrilite. Adults & Children above 12 : ! Nutrilite Daily& 2 Bio-C everyday + 1 dose of Triple Guard Echinecea. (9-6-3) Children between  6 -12 : 1 Kids Chewable, 1 Bio-C & 2 Scoops of Nutrilite Kids Chocolate or Berry Blast everyday. Children between 1 -6 : 1 Kids Chewable & 2 Scoops of Nutrilite Kids Chocolate or Berry Blast everyday.    Since there is no preventive vaccine for this disease, the only way we can protect our family is by making our immune system strong by having the above mentioned Nutrilite everyday.  Please share the above knowledge with all your family & friends.

Swine Flu - Symptoms and Precautions

Swine Flue is spreading in India like anything. This will probably help you to know the symptoms and the basic precautions one need to take.   Symptoms of Swine Flu   The symptoms of the H1N1 flu virus in people are similar to the symptoms of seasonal flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. A significant number of people who have been infected with novel H1N1 flu virus also have reported diarrhea and vomiting. The high risk groups for novel H1N1 flu are not known at this time, but it's possible that they may be the same as for seasonal influenza.   Emergency Warning Signs   If you become ill and experience any of the following warning signs, seek emergency medical care.   In children, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:   1.         Fast breathing or trouble breathing   2.         Bluish or gray skin color   3.         Not drinking enough fluids   4.         Severe or persistent vomiting   5.         Not waking up or not interacting   6.         Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held   7.         Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough   In adults, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:   1.         Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath   2.         Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen   3.         Sudden dizziness   4.         Confusion   5.         Severe or persistent vomiting   6.         Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough     Keep Swine Flu Away with Basic Precautions Swine flu in India is spreading like wildfire, taking the toll to ten. Officials say there are currently more than 800 cases of the H1N1 flu strain in India. Governments from all around the world are finding ways to combat this deadly disease. So what can you do to protect yourself? Stay calm and practice these 10 effective prevention tips.   1. Wash your hands frequently.   Use the antibacterial soaps to cleanse your hands. Wash them often, at least 15 seconds and rinse with running water.   2. Get enough sleep   Try to get 8 hours of good sleep every night to keep your immune system in top flu-fighting shape.   3. Keep hydrated Drink 8 to10 glasses of water each day to flush toxins from your system and maintain good moisture and mucous production in your sinuses.   4. Boost your immune system Keeping your body strong, nourished, and ready to fight infection is important in flu prevention. So stick with whole grains, colorful vegetables, and vitamin-rich fruits.   5. Keep informed The government is taking necessary steps to prevent the pandemic and periodically release guidelines to keep the pandemic away. Please make sure to keep up to date on the information and act in a calm manner.   6. Avoid alcohol Apart from being a mood depressant, alcohol is an immune suppressant that can actually decrease your resistance to viral infections like swine flu. So stay away from alcoholic drinks so that your immune system may be strong.   7. Be physically active Moderate exercise can support the immune system by increasing circulation and oxygenating the body. For example brisk walking for 30-40 minutes 3-4 times a week will significantly perk up your immunity.   8. Keep away from sick people Flu virus spreads when particles dispersed into the air through a cough or sneeze reach someone else’s nose. So if you have to be around someone who is sick, try to stay a few feet away from them and especially, avoid physical contact.   9. Know when to get help Consult your doctor if you have a cough and fever and follow their instructions, including taking medicine as prescribed.   10. Avoid crowded areas Try to avoid unnecessary trips outside. Moreover, avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.   Keep cool.. Keep Fit..

Dont Worry - Dr Deepak Purohit wrote to Presidents about Swine Flu

These are few facts about swine flu when discussed with the leading epidemiologists. 1) Swine flu, that is H1N1 flu is not new, first detected in 1987 2) Infective stage of flue is 5 days, 1 day before and 4 days after onset of symptoms 3) The best way to prevent it spreading is asking patient having symptoms of flu like fever cough and running nose to take rest at home for 4 days so he does not transmit it 4) Masks are of limited value if any, in this disease, it can spread through droplets on your skin, through contact etc, and I have seen that the masks in Pune are worn as fashion statement, while walking on road today morning I saw people wearing masks coming out for a morning walk with their dogs!, many wearing masks around their necks, and so on, infect these masks shall act as the vehicles to carry the virus, instead, avoiding crowded places or cinema halls or malls where air conditioners are on, is advisable, because you get recalculated air, where the virus density multiplies 5)Death after H1N1 flu is not common, infect infections like measles is taking toll of thousands more every year, and we are oblivious of the facts. Swine flu is being blown out of proportion by media trying to create hysteria among lay people. 6) Fever accompanied by respiratory distress, should be immediately notified which is likely to be a complication of H1N1 flu 7)The mortality is less than .01 percent of those affected, that means may be one in 10,000 affected is likely to suffer the life loss. 8) If you remember, 2 years ago SARS was blown out of proportion, what happened? Humans develop immunity to the virus, the same is going to happen, we develop immunity in due course of time, the virus is in the air, you can not stop it, our body is already developing the immunity so nothing to panic. We need to take care of children and elderly who have less immunity and do not let them go to crowded places that are all. WE MUST START THIS CAMPAIGN OF NOT TO BE AFRAID OF THIS FLU AND LET YOUR DAILY WORK CONTINUE AS NORMAL, NO MASKS FOR ORDINARY CITIZENS, HEALTH CARE WORKERS OR SPECIFIC EXPOSED TO LOT OF CROWDED ENVIRONMENTS MAY BE BENEFITTED, NOT PROVEN. I am amazed to hear that people are selling masks of RS 20 each which are available to less than Rupee 1 in the market. See who is getting benefitted? Please spread the scientific info, do not join the band wagon and stick to science, that should be the order of the day.

SCIENTIFIC PREVENTION 0F "SWINE FLU" USING HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS

SCIENTIFIC PREVENTION 0F  "SWINE FLU" USING HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS   Message 1 :  TO PREVENT "SWINE FLUE".   1) Use 1 to 3% Hydrogenperoxide Solution(available in in all chemist shops)      For gargling ( 2 times in a day) 2) Inhale 3% H2O2 (Hydrogenperoxide) 3-4 times a day. 3) Wash hands frequently with 1% Hydrogenperoxide.   Message 2: TO PREVENT "SWINE FLUE".      1) Inhale food grade Vinegar for 1 second (3-4 times a day) 2) Frequently wash hands with 1% Vinegar (Food grade) 3)  Mop floor, doors, windows, tiles, toilet floor with 1% Vinegar.   Message 3: TO PREVENT "SWINE FLUE".     1)      Inhale clove oil for 1 second 2)      Chew 1 clove in a day (Specially in a public meetings)   Message 4: TO PREVENT "SWINE FLUE".     1)      Eat Raw Garlic ( 0.1 gms to 0.5 gms) 2 – 3 times in a day. 2)      Eat Raw Onion 3)      Eat fresh raw Ginger (0.1 gms. To 0.5 gms.) 2 – 3 times in a day.   Message 4 : TO PREVENT "SWINE FLUE".             1)  Drink hot milk with 2 gms of Turmeric ( 2 -3 times in a day)          Message 5 : TO PREVENT "SWINE FLUE".            1)      Consume plenty of Vitamin 'C'  fruits like Lemon / Amla. 2)      Consume L-Lysine (Minimum 500 mg.) ( Ask your doctor for dosage). 3)      Drink water about 2 – 3 liter / day

Indian natural herb Tulsi to fight back swine flu...

Ayurveda, the traditional 'science of life', has a remedy for diseases when every other stream of medicine fails. Now, at a time when swine flu is spreading like wildfire across the world, Ayurveda has the remedy in the form of the miraculous herb, the basil leaves commonly known as Tulsi. Tulsi, the purest and most sublime plant, has been known and worshipped in India for more than five millennia for its remarkable healing properties. Considered as an 'Elixir of Life', this wonder herb has now been claimed to keep the deadly swine flu at bay and help fast recovery in afflicted persons. "The anti-flu property of Tulsi has been discovered by medical experts across the world quite recently. Tulsi improves the body's overall defence mechanism including its ability to fight viral diseases. It was successfully used in combating Japanese Encephalitis and the same theory applies to swine flu," Dr U K Tiwari, a herbal medicine practitioner says. Apart from acting as a preventive medicine in case of swine flu, Tulsi can help the patient recover faster. "Even when a person has already contracted swine flu, Tulsi can help in speeding up the recovery process and also help in strengthening the immune system of the body," he claims. Dr Bhupesh Patel, a lecturer at Gujarat Ayurved University, Jamnagar is also of the view that Tulsi can play an important role in controlling swine flu. "Tulsi can control swine flu and it should be taken in fresh form. Juice or paste of at least 20-25 medium sized leaves should be consumed twice a day on an empty stomach." This increases the resistance of the body and, thereby, reduces the chances of inviting swine flu," believes Patel. As its name suggests, Tulsi has again proved to be the 'the incomparable' medicine - this time, in the prevention and cure of swine flu. The symptoms of the H1N1 flu virus in people are similar to the symptoms of seasonal flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. A significant number of people who have been infected with novel H1N1 flu virus also have reported diarrhea and vomiting. The high risk groups for novel H1N1 flu are not known at this time, but it's possible that they may be the same as for seasonal influenza. However, Please consult a practitioner in case of any such symptoms. Doctors have strictly advised against self medication.

Root Cause Analysis of Swine Flu.................

It’s an American mistake which the world is now facing…………..

Every American is a lethal biological weapon,
Think before you kiss one!
Issued in public (Indian) interest by:
Bhartiya Bimari Sangh (BBS)
Sirf bhartiya bimariya apnaye, jeevan khush hal banaye

Swine Flu Influenza

Swine influenza (also called H1N1 flu, swine flu, hog flu, and pig flu) is an infection by any one of several types of swine influenza virus. Swine influenza virus (SIV) is any strain of the influenza family of viruses that is endemic in pigs.^[2] As of 2009, the known SIV strains include influenza C and the subtypes of influenza A known as H1N1, H1N2, H3N1, H3N2, and H2N3.

Swine influenza virus is common throughout pig populations worldwide. Transmission of the virus from pigs to humans is not common and does not always lead to human influenza, often resulting only in the production of antibodies in the blood. If transmission does cause human influenza, it is called zoonotic swine flu. People with regular exposure to pigs are at increased risk of swine flu infection. The meat of an infected animal poses no risk of infection when properly cooked.

During the mid-20th century, identification of influenza subtypes became possible, allowing accurate diagnosis of transmission to humans. Since then, only 50 such transmissions have been confirmed. These strains of swine flu rarely pass from human to human. Symptoms of zoonotic swine flu in humans are similar to those of influenza and of influenza-like illness in general, namely chills, fever, sore throat, muscle pains, severe headache, coughing, weakness and general discomfort.

 
 

Classification

Of the three genera of influenza viruses that cause human flu, two also cause influenza in pigs, with influenza A being common in pigs and influenza C being rare.^[3]
Influenza B has not been reported in pigs. Within influenza A and influenza C, the strains found in pigs and humans are largely distinct, although due to reassortment there have been transfers of genes among strains crossing swine, avian, and human species boundaries.

Influenza C

Influenza C viruses infect both humans and pigs, but do not infect birds.^[4] Transmission between pigs and humans have occurred in the past.^[5] For example, influenza C caused small outbreaks of a mild form of influenza amongst children in Japan^[6] and California.^[6] Due to its limited host range and the lack of genetic diversity in influenza C, this form of influenza does not cause pandemics in humans.^[7]

Influenza A

Swine influenza is known to be caused by influenza A subtypes H1N1,^[8]
H1N2,^[8]
H3N1,^[9]
H3N2,^[8] and H2N3.^[10] In pigs, three influenza A virus subtypes (H1N1, H3N2, and H1N2) are the most common strains worldwide.^[11] In the United States, the H1N1 subtype was exclusively prevalent among swine populations before 1998; however, since late August 1998, H3N2 subtypes have been isolated from pigs. As of 2004, H3N2 virus isolates in US swine and turkey stocks were triple reassortants, containing genes from human (HA, NA, and PB1), swine (NS, NP, and M), and avian (PB2 and PA) lineages.^[12]

Surveillance

Although there is no formal national surveillance system in the United States to determine what viruses are circulating in pigs,^[13] there is an informal surveillance network in the United States that is part of a world surveillance network.

Veterinary medical pathologist, Tracey McNamara, set up a national disease surveillance system in zoos because the zoos do active disease surveillance and many of the exotic animals housed there have broad susceptibilities. Many species fall below the radar of any federal agencies (including dogs, cats, pet prairie dogs, zoo animals, and urban wildlife), even though they may be important in the early detection of human disease outbreaks.^[14]
[15]

History

Swine influenza was first proposed to be a disease related to human influenza during the 1918 flu pandemic, when pigs became sick at the same time as humans.^[16] The first identification of an influenza virus as a cause of disease in pigs occurred about ten years later, in 1930.^[17] For the following 60 years, swine influenza strains were almost exclusively H1N1. Then, between 1997 and 2002, new strains of three different subtypes and five different genotypes emerged as causes of influenza among pigs in North America. In 1997-1998, H3N2 strains emerged. These strains, which include genes derived by reassortment from human, swine and avian viruses, have become a major cause of swine influenza in North America. Reassortment between H1N1 and H3N2 produced H1N2. In 1999 in Canada, a strain of H4N6 crossed the species barrier from birds to pigs, but was contained on a single farm.^[17]

The H1N1 form of swine flu is one of the descendants of the strain that caused the 1918 flu pandemic.^[18][19] As well as persisting in pigs, the descendants of the 1918 virus have also circulated in humans through the 20th century, contributing to the normal seasonal epidemics of influenza.^[19] However, direct transmission from pigs to humans is rare, with only 12 cases in the U.S. since 2005.^[20] Nevertheless, the retention of influenza strains in pigs after these strains have disappeared from the human population might make pigs a reservoir where influenza viruses could persist, later emerging to reinfect humans once human immunity to these strains has waned.^[21]

Swine flu has been reported numerous times as a zoonosis in humans, usually with limited distribution, rarely with a widespread distribution. Outbreaks in swine are common and cause significant economic losses in industry, primarily by causing stunting and extended time to market. For example, this disease costs the British meat industry about £65 million every year.^[22]

1918 pandemic in humans

The 1918 flu pandemic in humans was associated with H1N1 and influenza appearing in pigs;^[19] this may reflect a zoonosis either from swine to humans, or from humans to swine. Although it is not certain in which direction the virus was transferred, some evidence suggests that, in this case, pigs caught the disease from humans.^[16] For instance, swine influenza was only noted as a new disease of pigs in 1918, after the first large outbreaks of influenza amongst people.^[16] Although a recent phylogenetic analysis of more recent strains of influenza in humans, birds, and swine suggests that the 1918 outbreak in humans followed a reassortment event within a mammal,^[23] the exact origin of the 1918 strain remains elusive.^[24] It is estimated that anywhere from 50 to 100 million people were killed worldwide.^[19][25]

1976 U.S. outbreak

Main article: 1976 swine flu outbreak

On February 5, 1976, in the United States an army recruit at Fort Dix said he felt tired and weak. He died the next day and four of his fellow soldiers were later hospitalized. Two weeks after his death, health officials announced that the cause of death was a new strain of swine flu. The strain, a variant of H1N1, is known as A/New Jersey/1976 (H1N1). It was detected only from January 19 to February 9 and did not spread beyond Fort Dix.^[26]

President Ford receives swine flu vaccination

This new strain appeared to be closely related to the strain involved in the 1918 flu pandemic. Moreover, the ensuing increased surveillance uncovered another strain in circulation in the U.S.: A/Victoria/75 (H3N2) spread simultaneously, also caused illness, and persisted until March.^[26] Alarmed public-health officials decided action must be taken to head off another major pandemic, and urged President Gerald Ford that every person in the U.S. be vaccinated for the disease.^[27]

The vaccination program was plagued by delays and public relations problems.^[28] On October 1, 1976, the immunization program began and by October 11, approximately 40 million people, or about 24% of the population, had received swine flu immunizations. That same day, three senior citizens died soon after receiving their swine flu shots and there was a media outcry linking the deaths to the immunizations, despite the lack of positive proof. According to science writer Patrick Di Justo, however, by the time the truth was known — that the deaths were not proven to be related to the vaccine — it was too late. "The government had long feared mass panic about swine flu — now they feared mass panic about the swine flu vaccinations." This became a strong setback to the program.^[29]

There were reports of Guillain-Barré syndrome, a paralyzing neuromuscular disorder, affecting some people who had received swine flu immunizations. This syndrome is a rare side-effect of modern influenza vaccines, with an incidence of about one case per million vaccinations.^[30] As a result, Di Justo writes that "the public refused to trust a government-operated health program that killed old people and crippled young people." In total, less than 33% of the population had been immunized by the end of 1976. The National Influenza Immunization Program was effectively halted on December 16.

Overall, there were about 500 cases of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), resulting in death from severe pulmonary complications for 25 people, which, according to Dr. P. Haber, were probably caused by an immunopathological reaction to the 1976 vaccine. Other influenza vaccines have not been linked to GBS, though caution is advised for certain individuals, particularly those with a history of GBS.^[31][32] Still, as observed by a participant in the immunization program, the vaccine killed more Americans than the disease did.^[33]

1988 zoonosis

In September 1988, a swine flu virus killed one woman and infected others. 32-year old Barbara Ann Wieners was eight months pregnant when she and her husband, Ed, became ill after visiting the hog barn at a county fair in Walworth County, Wisconsin. Barbara died eight days later, after developing pneumonia.^[34] The only pathogen identified was an H1N1 strain of swine influenza virus.^[35] Doctors were able to induce labor and deliver a healthy daughter before she died. Her husband recovered from his symptoms.

Influenza-like illness (ILI) was reportedly widespread among the pigs exhibited at the fair. 76% of 25 swine exhibitors aged 9 to 19 tested positive for antibody to SIV, but no serious illnesses were detected among this group. Additional studies suggested between one and three health care personnel who had contact with the patient developed mild influenza-like illnesses with antibody evidence of swine flu infection. However, there was no community outbreak.^[36][37]

1998 US outbreak in swine

In 1998, swine flu was found in pigs in four U.S. states. Within a year, it had spread through pig populations across the United States. Scientists found that this virus had originated in pigs as a recombinant form of flu strains from birds and humans. This outbreak confirmed that pigs can serve as a crucible where novel influenza viruses emerge as a result of the reassortment of genes from different strains.^[38][39][40]

2007 Philippine outbreak in swine

On August 20, 2007 Department of Agriculture officers investigated the outbreak (epizootic) of swine flu in Nueva Ecija and Central Luzon, Philippines. The mortality rate is less than 10% for swine flu, unless there are complications like hog cholera. On July 27, 2007, the Philippine National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS) raised a hog cholera "red alert" warning over Metro Manila and 5 regions of Luzon after the disease spread to backyard pig farms in Bulacan and Pampanga, even if these tested negative for the swine flu virus.[41][42]

 

2009 outbreak in humans

Main article: 2009 flu pandemic

The H1N1 viral strain implicated in the 2009 flu pandemic among humans often is called "swine flu" because initial testing showed many of the genes in the virus were similar to influenza viruses normally occurring in North American swine.^[43] But further research has shown that the outbreak is due to a new strain of H1N1 not previously reported in pigs.

In late April, Margaret Chan, the World Health Organization's director-general, declared a "public health emergency of international concern" under the rules of the WHO's new International Health Regulations when the first cases of the H1N1 virus were reported in the United States.^[44]
[45] Following the outbreak, on May 2, 2009, it was reported in pigs at a farm in Alberta, Canada, with a link to the outbreak in Mexico. The pigs are suspected to have caught this new strain of virus from a farm worker who recently returned from Mexico, then showed symptoms of an influenza-like illness.^[46] These are probable cases, pending confirmation by laboratory testing.

The new strain was initially described as an apparent reassortment of at least four strains of influenza A virus subtype H1N1, including one strain endemic in humans, one endemic in birds, and two endemic in swine.^[43] Subsequent analysis suggested it was a reassortment of just two strains, both found in swine.^[47] Although initial reports identified the new strain as swine influenza (i.e., a zoonosis originating in swine), its origin is unknown. Several countries took precautionary measures to reduce the chances for a global pandemic of the disease.^[48] The Swine flu has been compared to other similar types of influenza virus in terms of mortality: "in the US it appears that for every 1000 people who get infected, about 40 people need admission to hospital and about one person dies".^[49]. There are fears that swine flu will become a major global pandemic in the winter months, with many countries planning major vaccination campaigns. ^[50]

Transmission

Transmission between pigs

Influenza is quite common in pigs, with about half of breeding pigs having been exposed to the virus in the US.^[51] Antibodies to the virus are also common in pigs in other countries.^[51]

The main route of transmission is through direct contact between infected and uninfected animals.^[11] These close contacts are particularly common during animal transport. Intensive farming may also increase the risk of transmission, as the pigs are raised in very close proximity to each other.^[52][53] The direct transfer of the virus probably occurs either by pigs touching noses, or through dried mucus. Airborne transmission through the aerosols produced by pigs coughing or sneezing are also an important means of infection.^[11] The virus usually spreads quickly through a herd, infecting all the pigs within just a few days.^[2] Transmission may also occur through wild animals, such as wild boar, which can spread the disease between farms.^[54]

Transmission to humans

People who work with poultry and swine, especially people with intense exposures, are at increased risk of zoonotic infection with influenza virus endemic in these animals, and constitute a population of human hosts in which zoonosis and reassortment can co-occur.^[55] Vaccination of these workers against influenza and surveillance for new influenza strains among this population may therefore be an important public health measure.^[56] Transmission of influenza from swine to humans who work with swine was documented in a small surveillance study performed in 2004 at the University of Iowa.^[57] This study among others forms the basis of a recommendation that people whose jobs involve handling poultry and swine be the focus of increased public health surveillance.^[55] Other professions at particular risk of infection are veterinarians and meat processing workers, although the risk of infection for both of these groups is lower than that of farm workers.^[58]

Interaction with avian H5N1 in pigs

Pigs are unusual as they can be infected with influenza strains that usually infect three different species: pigs, birds and humans.^[59] This makes pigs a host where influenza viruses might exchange genes, producing new and dangerous strains.^[59] Avian influenza virus H3N2 is endemic in pigs in China and has been detected in pigs in Vietnam, increasing fears of the emergence of new variant strains.^[60]
H3N2 evolved from H2N2 by antigenic shift.^[61] In August 2004, researchers in China found H5N1 in pigs.^[62]

Main symptoms of swine flu in swine.^[2]

These H5N1 infections may be quite common: in a survey of 10 apparently healthy pigs housed near poultry farms in West Java, where avian flu had broken out, five of the pig samples contained the H5N1 virus. The Indonesian government has since found similar results in the same region. Additional tests of 150 pigs outside the area were negative.^[63][64]

Signs and symptoms

In swine

In pigs influenza infection produces fever, lethargy, sneezing, coughing, difficulty breathing and decreased appetite.^[11] In some cases the infection can cause abortion. Although mortality is usually low (around 1-4%),^[2] the virus can produce weight loss and poor growth, causing economic loss to farmers.^[11] Infected pigs can lose up to 12 pounds of body weight over a 3 to 4 week period.^[11]

In humans

Main symptoms of swine flu in humans^[65]

Direct transmission of a swine flu virus from pigs to humans is occasionally possible (called zoonotic swine flu). In all, 50 cases are known to have occurred since the first report in medical literature in 1958, which have resulted in a total of six deaths.^[66] Of these six people, one was pregnant, one had leukemia, one had Hodgkin disease and two were known to be previously healthy.^[66] Despite these apparently low numbers of infections, the true rate of infection may be higher, since most cases only cause a very mild disease, and will probably never be reported or diagnosed.^[66]

In this video, Dr. Joe Bresee, with CDC's Influenza Division, describes the symptoms of swine flu and warning signs to look for that indicate the need for urgent medical attention.
See also: See this video with subtitles on YouTube [2]

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in humans the symptoms of the 2009 "swine flu" H1N1 virus are similar to those of influenza and of influenza-like illness in general. Symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. The 2009 outbreak has shown an increased percentage of patients reporting diarrhea and vomiting.^[67] The 2009 H1N1 virus is not zoonotic swine flu, as it is not transmitted from pigs to humans, but from person to person.

Because these symptoms are not specific to swine flu, a differential diagnosis of probable swine flu requires not only symptoms but also a high likelihood of swine flu due to the person's recent history. For example, during the 2009 swine flu outbreak in the United States, CDC advised physicians to "consider swine influenza infection in the differential diagnosis of patients with acute febrile respiratory illness who have either been in contact with persons with confirmed swine flu, or who were in one of the five U.S. states that have reported swine flu cases or in Mexico during the 7 days preceding their illness onset."^[68] A diagnosis of confirmed swine flu requires laboratory testing of a respiratory sample (a simple nose and throat swab).^[68]

The most common cause of death is respiratory failure, other causes of death are pneumonia (leading to sepsis)^[69], high fever (leading to neurological problems), dehydration (from excessive vomiting and diarrhea) and electrolyte imbalance. Fatalities are more likely in young children and the elderly.

Diagnosis

Thermal scanning of passengers arriving at Singapore Changi airport.

This section requires expansion.

Different medical kits are available for diagnosis of Swine Flu.^[70]

Prevention

Prevention of swine influenza has three components: prevention in swine, prevention of transmission to humans, and prevention of its spread among humans.

Prevention in swine

Methods of preventing the spread of influenza among swine include facility management, herd management, and vaccination (ATCvet code: QI09AA03). Because much of the illness and death associated with swine flu involves secondary infection by other pathogens, control strategies that rely on vaccination may be insufficient.

Control of swine influenza by vaccination has become more difficult in recent decades, as the evolution of the virus has resulted in inconsistent responses to traditional vaccines. Standard commercial swine flu vaccines are effective in controlling the infection when the virus strains match enough to have significant cross-protection, and custom (autogenous) vaccines made from the specific viruses isolated are created and used in the more difficult cases.^[71][72] Present vaccination strategies for SIV control and prevention in swine farms typically include the use of one of several bivalent SIV vaccines commercially available in the United States. Of the 97 recent H3N2 isolates examined, only 41 isolates had strong serologic cross-reactions with antiserum to three commercial SIV vaccines. Since the protective ability of influenza vaccines depends primarily on the closeness of the match between the vaccine virus and the epidemic virus, the presence of nonreactive H3N2 SIV variants suggests that current commercial vaccines might not effectively protect pigs from infection with a majority of H3N2 viruses.^[73][74] The United States Department of Agriculture researchers say that while pig vaccination keeps pigs from getting sick, it does not block infection or shedding of the virus.^[75]

Facility management includes using disinfectants and ambient temperature to control virus in the environment. The virus is unlikely to survive outside living cells for more than two weeks, except in cold (but above freezing) conditions, and it is readily inactivated by disinfectants.^[2] Herd management includes not adding pigs carrying influenza to herds that have not been exposed to the virus. The virus survives in healthy carrier pigs for up to 3 months and can be recovered from them between outbreaks. Carrier pigs are usually responsible for the introduction of SIV into previously uninfected herds and countries, so new animals should be quarantined.^[51] After an outbreak, as immunity in exposed pigs wanes, new outbreaks of the same strain can occur.^[2]

Prevention in humans

Prevention of pig to human transmission

Swine can be infected by both avian and human influenza strains of influenza, and therefore are hosts where the antigenic shifts can occur that create new influenza strains.

The transmission from swine to human is believed to occur mainly in swine farms where farmers are in close contact with live pigs. Although strains of swine influenza are usually not able to infect humans this may occasionally happen, so farmers and veterinarians are encouraged to use a face mask when dealing with infected animals. The use of vaccines on swine to prevent their infection is a major method of limiting swine to human transmission. Risk factors that may contribute to swine-to-human transmission include smoking and not wearing gloves when working with sick animals.^[76]

Prevention of human to human transmission

Influenza spreads between humans through coughing or sneezing and people touching something with the virus on it and then touching their own nose or mouth.^[77] Swine flu cannot be spread by pork products, since the virus is not transmitted through food.^[77] The swine flu in humans is most contagious during the first five days of the illness although some people, most commonly children, can remain contagious for up to ten days. Diagnosis can be made by sending a specimen, collected during the first five days for analysis.^[78]

Recommendations to prevent spread of the virus among humans include using standard infection control against influenza. This includes frequent washing of hands with soap and water or with alcohol-based hand sanitizers, especially after being out in public.^[79] Chance of transmission is also reduced by disinfecting household surfaces, which can be done effectively with a diluted chlorine bleach solution.^[80]

Experts agree that hand-washing can help prevent viral infections, including ordinary influenza and the swine flu virus. Influenza can spread in coughs or sneezes, but an increasing body of evidence shows small droplets containing the virus can linger on tabletops, telephones and other surfaces and be transferred via the fingers to the mouth, nose or eyes. Alcohol-based gel or foam hand sanitizers work well to destroy viruses and bacteria. Anyone with flu-like symptoms such as a sudden fever, cough or muscle aches should stay away from work or public transportation and should contact a doctor for advice.

Social distancing is another tactic. It means staying away from other people who might be infected and can include avoiding large gatherings, spreading out a little at work, or perhaps staying home and lying low if an infection is spreading in a community. Public health and other responsible authorities have action plans which may request or require social distancing actions depending on the severity of the outbreak.

Vaccination

Vaccines are available for different kinds of Swine Flu. Although the current trivalent influenza vaccine is unlikely to provide protection against the new 2009 H1N1 strain,^[81] vaccines against the new strain are being developed and could be ready as early as November 2009.^[82]

Treatment

In swine

As swine influenza is rarely fatal to pigs, little treatment beyond rest and supportive care is required.^[51] Instead veterinary efforts are focused on preventing the spread of the virus throughout the farm, or to other farms.^[11] Vaccination and animal management techniques are most important in these efforts. Antibiotics are also used to treat this disease, which although they have no effect against the influenza virus, do help prevent bacterial pneumonia and other secondary infections in influenza-weakened herds.^[51]

In humans

If a person becomes sick with swine flu, antiviral drugs can make the illness milder and make the patient feel better faster. They may also prevent serious flu complications. For treatment, antiviral drugs work best if started soon after getting sick (within 2 days of symptoms). Beside antivirals, supportive care at home or in hospital, focuses on controlling fevers, relieving pain and maintaining fluid balance, as well as identifying and treating any secondary infections or other medical problems. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the use of Tamiflu (oseltamivir) or Relenza (zanamivir) for the treatment and/or prevention of infection with swine influenza viruses; however, the majority of people infected with the virus make a full recovery without requiring medical attention or antiviral drugs.^[83] The virus isolates in the 2009 outbreak have been found resistant to amantadine and rimantadine.^[84]

In the U.S., on April 27, 2009, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued Emergency Use Authorizations to make available Relenza and Tamiflu
antiviral drugs to treat the swine influenza virus in cases for which they are currently unapproved. The agency issued these EUAs to allow treatment of patients younger than the current approval allows and to allow the widespread distribution of the drugs, including by non-licensed volunteers.^[85]