Swine Flu Faq

The following information is taken from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene websites. Please visit these websites at www.cdc.gov and www.nyc.gov for additional information on the Swine Influenza illness.

Swine Influenza has killed 86 people and affected 1400 others in Mexico since April 13, 2009. There are 40 confirmed cases in five U.S. states, 28 of which are in the New York City area. There are suspected cases in Canada and France, and 10 people have tested positive for influenza A in New Zealand.

1. What is swine flu?
   Swine Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by one of several swine influenza A viruses that leads to outbreaks in pigs and occasionally infects humans. According to the World Health Organization, it is spread among pigs by aerosols, direct and indirect contact, and asymptomatic carrier pigs (pigs who carry the virus but are not displaying symptoms of the disease). It is not yet known how easily the virus is spread between people, despite the fact that the latest outbreak has been through human-to-human transmission.
2. What are the signs and symptoms of swine flu in humans?
   Symptoms of swine flu in humans are similar to that of the regular flu, including fever, cough, sore throat, aching body, headache, chills, fatigue, diarrhea and vomiting. Severe illness, including pneumonia and respiratory failure, have been reported as being caused by swine flu in people. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) the swine flu virus may heighten the severity of underlying chronic medical conditions.
3. How is swine flu spread?
   Swine Influenza A is spread the same way as seasonal flu, from person to person, through coughing or sneezing of people with influenza. It is possible to become infected by touching something with the flu virus on it and then touching the mouth or nose. Those infected with the virus can spread it to others one day before symptoms develop and a week or more after becoming sick. Young children may be contagious for longer periods.
4. How can I avoid catching the virus?
   There is no vaccine currently available to protect against swine flu. The best ways to prevent catching the virus include avoiding contact with people who are ill, trying not to touch surfaces that may be contaminated with the virus, staying in good general health and being physically active, getting lots of sleep, reducing stress, drinking lots of fluids and eating nutritious food. It is also important to limit the spread of germs by washing your hands frequently, covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and throwing the used tissue away, as well as avoiding touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Using a hand sanitizer such as Purell kills most germs in as little as 15 seconds.
5. I think I’ve got swine flu, what should I do?
   According to the CDC, If you are experiencing any flu-like symptoms you should contact your health care provider immediately, especially if you live in areas where swine flu has been identified. If you are sick, PLEASE STAY HOME and avoid contact with other people as much as possible to avoid spreading your illness.
   
   Adults who experience these warning signs should seek urgent medical attention:
   • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
   • Flu-like symptoms with fever and a bad cough
   • Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
   • Severe or persistent vomiting
   • Sudden dizziness
   • Confusion
6. Treating swine flu
   The CDC recommends the use of oseltamivir or zanamivir for the treatment of swine influenza viruses. Taking antiviral drugs in pill, liquid or inhaler forms within two days of experiencing symptoms can provide relief and may prevent serious complications.
   
   If you are experiencing any cold or flu symptoms, please STAY HOME. Touro is small community and it is very easy for viruses to spread. Check with your doctor if you have a cold or flu that appears to get better and then worsens. For further information on swine influenza, please go to the CDC website, www.cdc.gov.