Are you, like so many, wondering what's the difference between regular flu and swine flu? This article will give you some simple answers. You will see the difference can mean a great deal for the safety of your family.
What Makes Swine Flu Different from Regular Flu?
The regular flu people seem to get each fall is referred to as seasonal flu, or regular flu. It is endemic to humans and refers, generally, to type A, B or C types.
Swine flu actually is a mutation of an animal strain that was transmitted to humans. In this case, the strain originated with a pig, which is the H1N1 strain. Other animal strains come from birds, and they are the H5N1 strains. Scientists have traced the current pig strain to a farm near Vera Cruz, Mexico.
Why is Swine Flu More Dangerous than Regular Flu?
Because no one in the world had been exposed to this new strain of H1N1 (Swine) flu before the first cases appeared in Mexico in April 2009. Therefore, most of the population has no protection against this new virus. That's why it is so important to get vaccinated when the vaccine becomes available.
If I get my Regular Annual Flu Shot, will I be Protected from Swine Flu?
That does not appear to be the case. Regular seasonal flu vaccine will not protect you from the swine flu presently in circulation.
Is there a Difference between Swine Flu Vaccine and Seasonal Flu Vaccine?
Yes. Swine flu vaccine is made up of the H1N1 virus. Seasonal flu vaccines are generally a combination of the three most common flu viruses found in humans.
What is the Difference in Symptoms between Regular Flu and Swine Flu?
The initial symptoms appear to be the same: Coughing, sneezing, fever, aches and pains and general fatigue. Some people also develop vomiting and diarrhea.
However, with H1N1 (2009 Swine Flu), within five days it is possible to have the onset of severe respiratory symptoms that progress to pneumonia or other life-threatening complications.
What People Have the Largest Risk Factors?
The analysis provided by the Centers for Disease Control indicates the H1N1 flu is more dangerous to people younger than 25 years of age. It appears people over age 65 are less likely to contract it, perhaps because they may have some were exposed to similar (though not identical) strains in the 1950s and 60s.
This is a huge difference from seasonal flu where the elderly and those with weakened immune systems compose the highest risk group.
How do I know Which Flu I Have?
You will need to have a lab test run. Your doctor can take a simple swab test and you should know within a day or two.
What is the Difference in Treatment Between Regular Flu and Swine Flu?
First off, always follow the advice of your doctor. Seek his or her advice to insure you are getting the best, most up to date treatment.
It now appears that treatment for most people will be the same. This includes avoiding dehydration by taking in plenty of fluids, use of over-the-counter medications to help relieve coughing and congestion, and getting plenty of rest.
Your doctor may also suggest you take antiviral drugs. It appears the drugs Relenza and Tamiflu are somewhat effective against the swine flu virus, especially if taken within 48 hours from the onset of your first symptoms. These antiviral drugs may reduce the severity of the flu which should help prevent serious complications.
If you have a sick child you need to watch him/her very closely. Keep the hydrated. If they seem overly lethargic, or have developed any breathing difficulty, call your pediatrician immediately.
What Makes Swine Flu More Dangerous?
Like other flu pandemics of years past, it is feared swine flu may cause serious respiratory problems that could become life threatening, even to healthy young people.
Generally, these symptoms will begin to appear about the time regular flu symptoms would be going away.
The World Health Organization, in April, 2009, raised the warning level to Level 5, thus instructing governments to immediately prepare for a global pandemic. Infections have already been reported around the world, particularly in the Western Hemisphere and the United States.
Past history suggests these strains appear to die out during the summer months but roar back with greater ferocity in the fall and winter.
What Should I Do Now?
Former Assistant Secretary for Health at the United States Deptartment of Health and Human Services, Admiral John O. Agwunobi,
an expert in pandemic preparedness, was quoted as saying:
"Advanced preparedness is critical and individual preparedness and a culture of self sufficiency are essential. No one can afford to wait until after an emergency begins in order to prepare."
The first few chapters of the book
Survive Pandemic Flu are available to download free on line. They offer excellent advice to each family on how to start an action plan.
Remember, the differences between
regular flu and swine flu could be deadly. To start your action plan for family preparedness, download the first chapters of
Survive Pandemic Flu at no cost, by visiting:
http://aboutthefamily.com.
Terry Fallon writes features and articles about family health, happiness and well being.
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