About Swine Flu (H1N1 - Influenza)

		What are the symptoms? Swine flu symptoms are similar to the symptoms of regular flu and include fever of over 100.4°F, fatigue, lack of appetite, and cold. Some people with swine flu have also reported runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. Nearly everyone with flu has at least two of these symptoms. So, how do you know if you have flu or just cold? There is one clue: when you have the flu, you feel flu symptoms sooner than you would cold symptoms, and they come on with much greater intensity. With the flu, you may feel very weak and fatigued for up to 2 or 3 weeks. You'll have muscle aches and periods of chills and sweats as fever comes and goes. You may also have a stuffy or runny nose, headache, and sore throat. Can I compare flu symptoms with cold symptoms? Yes. The following chart can help you compare flu symptoms with cold symptoms. Use it to lean the differences and similarities between flu and cold symptoms. Then, if you get flu symptoms, call your doctor and ask about an antiviral drug.
		Symptoms Cold Flu Fever Rare Characteristic, high 100-102 degrees F); lasts 3-4 days Headache Rare Prominent General aches, pains Slight Usual; often severe Fatigue, Weakness Quite mild Can last up to 2-3 weeks Extreme Exhaustion Never Early and prominent Stuffy Nose Common Sometimes Chest Discomfort,Cough Mild to moderate; hacking cough Common; can become severe
		You cannot confirm if you have swine flu just based on your symptoms. Like seasonal flu, pandemic swine flu can cause neurologic symptoms in children. These events are rare, but, as cases associated with seasonal flu have shown, they can be very severe and often fatal. Doctors may offer a rapid flu test, but what you need to understand is a negative result doesn't necessarily mean you don't have the flu. Only lab tests can definitively show whether you've got swine flu. State health departments can do these tests. Source: WebMD
		What should you do immediately? Those of you who have travelled from the affected countries in the past ten days and show symptoms swine flu like fever, cough, sore throat and difficulty in breathing should immediately contact the telephone number given below or visit the nearby Government Hospital. Important contact numbers: Outbreak Monitoring Cell (Control Room, NICD): 011-23921401 Websites: www.mohfw.nic.in and www.nicd.nic.in You can also contact a toll free number 2392 1401 at the National Institute of Communicable Disease Contact number for each cities: Bangalore BIAL Swine Flu Center - 91-80-22001490 SDS TUBERCULOSIS & RAJIV GANDHI INSTITUTE OF CHEST DISEASES(Govt. of Karnataka), Hosur Road, Bangalore - 560029 Helpline No: 91-80-26631923 Chennai Communicable Disease Hospital, 87, T.H. Road, Tondiarpet, Chennai, Tamil Nadu Hyderabad Govt. General and Chest Diseases Hospital, Erragadda , Hyderabad Hospital Helpline Number - 040-23814939 Kolkata Beliaghata Infectious Diseases Hospital, 57, Beliaghata Main Road, Kolkata Mumbai Kasturba Hospital, Arthur Road, Sane Guruji Marg, Mumbai 400011 Ph: 022- 23083901 / 23092458 / 23000889 New Delhi Yellow Fever Quarantine Centre, Near AAI Residential Colony, New Delhi Ph: 91-11-25652129 Influenza Ward, Ward no 5, Second Floor, New Building, RML Hospital, Delhi-1 RML- 91-11-24525211,23404328,23365525- Ext 4328 Source: Swine Flu India website	Click Here for Other More Info & Downloads on Swine Flu
		Who is at risk? Those who are more at risk from becoming seriously ill with swine flu are people with: chronic (long-term) lung disease, including people who have had drug treatment for their asthma within the past three years, chronic heart disease, chronic kidney disease, chronic liver disease, chronic neurological disease (neurological disorders include motor neurone disease, Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis), suppressed immune systems (whether caused by disease or treatment), diabetes, pregnant women, people aged 65 or older, and young children under five. Source: National Health Service, UK website
		How does it spread? The new swine flu virus is highly contagious, that is it spreads from person to person. The virus is spread through the droplets that come out of the nose or mouth when someone coughs or sneezes. If someone coughs or sneezes and they do not cover it, those droplets can spread about one metre (3ft). If you are very nearby you might breathe them in. Or, if someone coughs or sneezes into their hand, those droplets and the virus within them are easily transferred to surfaces that the person touches, such as door handles, hand rails, telephones and keyboards. If you touch these surfaces and touch your face, the virus can enter your system, and you can become infected. Source: National Health Service, UK website
		Can it be prevented? Influenza antiviral drugs also can be used to prevent influenza when they are given to a person who is not ill, but who has been or may be near a person with swine influenza. When used to prevent the flu, antiviral drugs are about 70% to 90% effective. When used for prevention, the number of days that they should be used will vary depending on a person's particular situation. Follow this general procedure to reduce the risk of catching or spreading the virus, you should: Cover your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, using a tissue Throw the tissue away quickly and carefully Wash your hands regularly with soap and water Clean hard surfaces (like door handles and remote controls) frequently with a normal cleaning product Keep away from others as much as possible. This is to keep from making others sick. Do not go to work or school while ill Stay home for at least 24 hours after fever is gone, except to seek medical care or for other necessities. (Fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.) Drink clear fluids (such as water, broth, sports drinks, electrolyte beverages for infants) to keep from being dehydrated Wear a facemask – if available and tolerable – when sharing common spaces with other household members to help prevent spreading the virus to others. Source: CDC, National Health Service, UK website
		Will it help to wear a mask? Information on the effectiveness of facemasks and respirators for decreasing the risk of influenza infection in community settings is extremely limited. So, it is difficult to assess their potential effectiveness in decreasing the risk of Swine Flu virus transmission in these settings. However, a well-fitted, FDA-approved mask together with other preventive measures MAY reduce the risk of contracting the flu. Those who are sick or caring for someone who is ill should consider using a mask or respirator if leaving the house becomes necessary. Source: CDC
		What precautions should one take at home? Two things - soap and water can reduce the chance of infection by 30 per cent. All you need to do is keep washing your hand with soap and water frequently. Wash hands frequently with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand cleaner when soap and water are not available. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth Eat healthy: Proteins are essential to help your body maintain and build strength. Lean meat, poultry, fish, legumes, dairy, eggs, and nuts and seeds are good sources of protein. The Food and Drug Administration recommends that adults eat 50 grams of protein per day. Pregnant and nursing women need more. By eating foods high in protein, we also get the benefit of other healing nutrients such as vitamins B6 and B12, both of which contribute to a healthy immune system. Vitamin B6 is widely available in foods, including protein foods such as turkey and beans as well as potatoes, spinach, and enriched cereal grains. Proteins such as meats, milk, and fish also contain vitamin B12, a powerful immune booster. Minerals such as selenium and zinc work to keep the immune system strong. These minerals are found in protein rich foods such as beans, nuts, meat, and poultry. Exercise: Regular exercise may help prevent the flu. According to recent findings, when moderate exercise is repeated on a near daily basis, there is a cumulative immune-enhancing effect. That is, your strong immune system can fight flu better. When you exercise, your white blood cells -- the blood cells that fight infections in the body -- travel through your body more quickly, fighting bacteria and viruses (such as flu) more efficiently. To maintain good health, experts recommend at least 30 minutes of aerobic activity such as walking, swimming, biking, or running each day. Source: Flu India website, CDC, WebMD
		What precautions should one take at schools? Avoid close contact with people who are sick People who are sick with an influenza-like illness should stay home and keep away from others as much as possible, including avoiding travel, for at least 24 hours after fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Fever should be gone without the use of fever-reducing medicine). Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing Wash your hands often Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth Source: CDC Is it safe to travel? Avoid traveling unnecessarily. However, if you must travel, check how the country you're going to handles swine flu. Although, the WHO doesn't recommend travel restrictions, many countries have set up their own H1N1 policies, and some travelers have been screened or quarantined in other countries because of swine flu concerns. Source: WebMD.com

Very Important for Every PC USER

During a recent visit to an optician, one of my friends was told of an exercise for the eyes by a specialist doctor that he termed as 20-20-20 ." It is apt for all of us, who spend long hours at our desks, looking at the computer screen. I Thought I'd share it with you. 20-20-20

Step I :-
After every 20 minutes of looking into the computer screen, turn your head and try to look at any object placed at least 20 feet away. This changes the focal length of your eyes, a must-do for the tired eyes.
 
Step II :-
Try and blink your eyes for 20 times in succession, to moisten them.
 
Step III :-
Time permitting of course, one should walk 20 paces after every 20 minutes of sitting in one particular posture. Helps blood circulation for the entire body.

FAQ - Swine Flu (H1N1 Virus Influenza)

  

What can I do to protect myself from catching influenza A(H1N1)?
  The main route of transmission of the new influenza A(H1N1) virus seems to be similar to seasonal influenza, via droplets that are expelled by speaking, sneezing or coughing. You can prevent getting infected by avoiding close contact with people who show influenza-like symptoms (trying to maintain a distance of about 1 meter if possible) and taking the following measures:
  

avoid touching your mouth and nose; 
  
clean hands thoroughly with soap and water, or cleanse them with an alcohol-based hand rub on a regular basis (especially if touching the mouth and nose, or surfaces that are potentially contaminated); 
  
avoid close contact with people who might be ill; 
  reduce the time spent in crowded settings if possible; 
improve airflow in your living space by opening windows; 
  
practise good health habits including adequate sleep, eating nutritious food, and keeping physically active.
  
What about using a mask? What does WHO recommend?
If you are not sick you do not have to wear a mask. 
  If you are caring for a sick person, you can wear a mask when you are in close contact with the ill person and dispose of it immediately after contact, and cleanse your hands thoroughly afterwards.
If you are sick and must travel or be around others, cover your mouth and nose.
  Using a mask correctly in all situations is essential. Incorrect use actually increases the chance of spreading infection.
How do I know if I have influenza A(H1N1)?
  You will not be able to tell the difference between seasonal flu and influenza A(H1N1) without medical help. Typical symptoms to watch for are similar to seasonal viruses and include fever, cough, headache, body aches, sore throat and runny nose. Only your medical practitioner and local health authority can confirm a case of influenza A(H1N1). 
  
What should I do if I think I have the illness?
If you feel unwell, have high fever, cough or sore throat: 
  

stay at home and keep away from work, school or crowds; 
  
rest and take plenty of fluids; 
  cover your nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing and, if using tissues, make sure you dispose of them carefully. Clean your hands immediately after with soap and water or cleanse them with an alcohol-based hand rub; 
  
if you do not have a tissue close by when you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth as much as possible with the crook of your elbow; 
  
use a mask to help you contain the spread of droplets when you are around others, but be sure to do so correctly; 
  
inform family and friends about your illness and try to avoid contact with other people; 
  
If possible, contact a health professional before traveling to a health facility to discuss whether a medical examination is necessary.
  
Should I take an antiviral now just in case I catch the new virus? 
  No. You should only take an antiviral, such as oseltamivir or zanamivir, if your health care provider advises you to do so. Individuals should not buy medicines to prevent or fight this new influenza without a prescription, and they should exercise caution in buying antivirals over the Internet. 
  
What about breastfeeding? Should I stop if I am ill?
No, not unless your health care provider advises it. Studies on other influenza infections show that breastfeeding is most likely protective for babies - it passes on helpful maternal immunities and lowers the risk of respiratory disease. Breastfeeding provides the best overall nutrition for babies and increases their defense factors to fight illness. 
  
When should someone seek medical care?
A person should seek medical care if they experience shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, or if a fever continues more than three days. For parents with a young child who is ill, seek medical care if a child has fast or labored breathing, continuing fever or convulsions (seizures).
  
Supportive care at home - resting, drinking plenty of fluids and using a pain reliever for aches - is adequate for recovery in most cases. (A non-aspirin pain reliever should be used by children and young adults because of the risk of Reye's syndrome.)
  
Should I go to work if I have the flu but am feeling OK?
No. Whether you have influenza A(H1N1) or a seasonal influenza, you should stay home and away from work through the duration of your symptoms. This is a precaution that can protect your work colleagues and others.
  
Can I travel?
If you are feeling unwell or have symptoms of influenza, you should not travel. If you have any doubts about your health, you should check with your health care provider.
  

Swine Flu and Tulsi

Wonder herb Tulsi can not only keep the dreaded swine flu at bay but also help in fast recovery of an afflicted person, Ayurvedic practitioners claim.

"The anti-flu property of Tulsi has been discovered by medical experts across the world quite recently. Tulsi improves the body's overall defense 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. When asked as to what extent Tulsi should be used in treating swine flu, the lecturer said, "It all depends upon the intensity of the disease. And the dose is administered accordingly." Dr Narendra Singh, who worked with the Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics at the erstwhile King George Medical College, Lucknow, also believes that Tulsi can help in containing swine flu.

"Three varieties of Tulsi leaves - Krishna (Ocimum sanctum), Vana (Ocimum gratissimum) and Katuki (Picrorriza kurroa) improve cell mediated immunity. These are anti-viral agents and improve body's resistance against various diseases including swine flu," he said.

Moreover, the practitioners said taking Tulsi is safe as it has no side effects and can be taken along with other medicines.

Very Important Note: Despite everything claim, It is advisable to remain under medical supervision of a qualified and experienced Doctor/Hospital.