First was Mad Cow, then it was H5N1 aka Bird Flu, now its Swine Flu… wot next? Fish Glue? Hahahahahhahhaha
What is swine flu?
Swine Influenza (swine flu) is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses that causes regular outbreaks in pigs. People do not normally get swine flu, but human infections can and do happen. Swine flu viruses have been reported to spread from person-to-person, but in the past, this transmission was limited and not sustained beyond three people.
How does swine flu spread?
Spread of this swine influenza virus is thought to be happening in the same way that seasonal flu spreads. Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing of people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.
What are the symptoms of swine flu?
Symptoms of flu include high fever, muscle aches, headache, and fatigue. People may also experience coughing and a runny nose, or less commonly, vomiting and diarrhea. The only way to definitively diagnose swine flu is to have laboratory testing done to determine the exact subtype of the virus.
Prevention Tips and Resources
- Observe good hygiene.
- Avoid people who are obviously sick.
- Be sure to wash your hands frequently.
- Avoid touching your face, and if you do, be sure your hands are clean.
Flu Information for Children, Parents and Child Care Providers
- The Flu: A Guide for Parents: Questions and answers about the flu, how to protect your child, treatment, and more.
- Stopping Germs at Home, Work and School: Fact sheet.
- Clean Hands Saves Lives: Keeping hands clean is one of the most important steps we can take to avoid getting sick and spreading germs to others.
Additional Resources
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