INDIA: Swine flu update – July 2017

Swine flu, the viral illness that became a pandemic in 2009, has made a comeback this year, claiming nearly 600 lives across the country so far this year (2017), with close to 12,500 cases being reported.

According to government data, Maharashtra, with 284 deaths, is the worst affected, followed by Gujarat (75), Kerala (63) and Rajasthan (59).

Pregnant women, adults over 65 and young children are at higher risk of severe illness.

Prevention is through vaccination and attention to personal hygiene.

What is Swine Flu:

• Swine Flu (also called H1N1) is a respiratory disease of the pigs caused by type A influenza viruses that regularly cause outbreaks of influenza in pigs.
• Swine flu virus may mutate (change) and hence can be transmitted to humans.
• Influenza viruses that commonly circulate in swine are called “swine influenza viruses” or “swine flu viruses’’.
• Some cases of ‘seasonal’ flu could well be Swine Flu.

What are its symptoms:

• The symptoms are the usual ones that occur during a common cold – fever (100 F or more), running nose, sore throat, cough, lethargy, muscular pains, lack of appetite, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

What are the precautions you must take:

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth: The influenza virus spreads when infected people cough or sneeze. Avoid touching things where virus may be present (door handles, etc.) and wash your hands frequently. Use a mask or a handkerchief to prevent coming into contact with the influenza virus or spreading it in the community.
• Improve personal hygiene: Wash hands frequently with soap and water or by using an alcohol-based sanitizer.
• Staying away: Anyone having flu-like symptoms must stay away from work (Inform your Line Manager).
• Social-distancing: It is staying away from other people who might be infected, and includes avoiding large gatherings, and even staying at home if influenza is spreading in the community.

Swine Flu is not spread by cooked pork products as the virus is not transmitted through food.

Seek early advice:

• Do not neglect the symptoms.
• Seek early medical advice in case of flu-like symptoms [Call your local health provider].
• Tests are available to check if the flu-like symptoms you have is Swine Flu.
• Prevention is through vaccination and attention to hygiene.
• Treatment is by anti-viral drugs obtained only from designated hospitals and pharmacies on prescription.
• Do not self-medicate.