Mercury News
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A swine flu outbreak has infected more than a thousand people in
Q What is swine flu?
A Swine Influenza (swine flu) is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses. Until recently, the disease very rarely spread to humans. In late March and early April 2009, cases of human infection with swine influenza A (H1N1) viruses were reported in Mexico and then in Southern California and near San Antonio, Texas. Since then, 40 confirmed cases have been reported in the
Q Is this swine flu virus contagious?
A CDC has determined that this swine flu virus is spreading from person to person, but it is unknown how easily it spreads.
Q What are the symptoms of swine flu in people?
A The symptoms of swine flu, which are similar to symptoms of regular flu, include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated
with swine flu. In the past, pneumonia and respiratory failure and deaths have been reported with swine flu infection. Like seasonal flu, swine flu may cause chronic medical conditions to worsen.
Q How does swine flu spread?
A This swine flu virus is thought to spread mainly by coughing or sneezing of people with the illness. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose. Infected people may be able to infect others one day before symptoms develop and up to seven or more days after becoming sick. That means that you may be able to pass on the flu germs before you know you're sick as well as while you're not feeling well.
Q What should I do to keep from getting the flu?
A Most important for preventing the spread of flu is washing your hands. Also, try to stay in good general health. That means get plenty of sleep, be physically active, drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious foods and manage your stress. Also, try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
Q What is the best technique for washing my hands to avoid getting the flu?
A
Q How long can viruses live outside the body?
A Some germs can live for two hours or longer on surfaces such as doorknobs, desks, cafeteria tables. Washing your hands frequently can reduce your chances of getting sick after touching these common surfaces.
Q How does a doctor test for swine flu?
A A health care provider takes a nasal swab, which is then used to test for the disease.
Q Are there medicines to treat swine flu?
A Yes. CDC recommends the use of oseltamivir (sold as Tamiflu) or zanamivir (sold as Relenza) for the treatment and/or prevention of infection with these swine flu viruses. These antiviral drugs are prescription medicine that keep the flu viruses from reproducing in your body, thus helping you feel better quicker. For treatment, antiviral drugs work best if started within two days of symptoms first developing.
Q Is there a vaccine available to prevent swine flu?
A No. There is no available vaccine for this swine flu at this time.
Q What should I do if I get sick?
A If you live in an area where swine flu cases have been identified and become ill with symptoms including fever, body aches, runny nose, sore throat, nausea or vomiting or diarrhea, you may want to contact your doctor, who will determine whether you need to be tested or treated for the illness. While you are sick, you should stay home and avoid contact with people as much as possible.
Q Is it safe to travel to
A Government officials have issued a travel advisory suggesting "non-essential travel to
Q What are public health officials doing to inhibit the disease's spread?
A
Q Can I get swine flu from eating or preparing pork?
A No. You can not get swine flu from pork products. Eating properly handled and cooked pork products is safe.
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Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Associated Press, Mercury News
Link: http://www.mercurynews.com/breakingnews/ci_12238623?nclick_check=1
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