The media is flashing our faces with scary reports of death tolls while pharma companies and mask makers are raking in the moolah… Sounds like swine flu to me. Given the global nature of the disease combined with popular misconceptions, what’s spreading faster than the pandemic itself is panic! It’s time we braved the situation…dissipating relevant knowledge instead of fear and frenzy. With a little common sense and these quick facts at hand, let us outwit the H1N1.
Swine flu can be traced back to 1976 in the United States. The 2009 outbreak which began in Mexico has now spread to many parts of the world. However, The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has declared that most cases worldwide are usually mild, and most hospitalizations and deaths have been of persons that also had underlying conditions such as asthma, diabetes, obesity, heart disease, or a weakened immune system. The mortality rate is less than .01 percent of those affected. Some believe that human beings will soon start developing immunity to the virus. Meanwhile, here are some preventive measures you can take.
The swine flu virus spreads easily between people, through the air or surface contact.- It can spread through coughs and sneezes, so it is important to encourage use of tissues. Tissue papers must be disposed off after use.
- The virus can also spread by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the nose or mouth. You may knowingly or unknowingly touch many infected surfaces like door knobs, phone handsets and table tops. So avoid touching your nose, mouth and eyes too often.
- Wash the hands regularly, with soap and water. Alcohol-based hand cleansers/sanitizers are also effective.
Many types of masks are available for prevention. The n95 mask is the most popular and sougth-after, as it provides more protection that surgical masks. For the people in Mumbai city, the BMC has indicated that regular cloth napkins can also provide adequate protection. - In India, many people have started using nilgiri (eucalyptus) oil drops on handkerchiefs. Though the implication is debatable, nilgiri oil in general is used to relieve fevers that arise from infectious diseases.
- As far as possible, avoid crowded places like malls and multiplexes or any such public spheres. The chance of catching infection in crowded places is higher.
- Extra care is required in offices and other environments with central air-conditioning, where infected air can ciruclate easily.
Eat healthy, at home, or at restaurants where you’re sure about the hygiene standards.- Exercise to keep your system fit. Healthy eating habits coupled with an active life boost the immunity levels which, in turn help combat diseases.
- Babies, young children and the elderly need extra care in this aspect, as they tend to have lower immunity.
- At home, keep surfaces clean by wiping them with a household disinfectant.
- Linens, eating utensils, and dishes belonging to those who are sick do not need to be cleaned separately, but importantly these items should not be shared without washing thoroughly first
- Eating utensils should be washed either in a dishwasher or by hand with water and soap
- Throw away tissues and other disposable items used by the sick person in the trash. Wash your hands after touching used tissues and similar waste.
Swine flu symptoms are similar to those of ordinary flu - fever, sneezes, sore throat, coughs, headache, and/or body ache. These can last upto one week. If any of these symptoms are noticed, the person should get a medical check up and stay at home to avoid spreading the infection further. Certain medicines and anti-viral drugs can treat the flu if administered at the right time. WHO (World Health Organization) does not expect to have a full effective vaccine before the end of 2009. Until then, it would be best to practise prevention and stay healthy.
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