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..