Influenza A (H1N1)

As the cases of Influenza A (H1N1) continue to rise worldwide, health educators are initiating a strong information campaign on how to prevent if not detect the presence of the virus causing the illness.

What is Influenza A (H1N1)?

Influenza A (H1N1), a new virus detected in 2009, is a subtype of influenza virus A and the most common cause of flu in humans. This virus is caused by a novel virus that resulted from the reassortment of 4 viruses from pigs, human and birds. Since there is no vaccine yet, this can be fatal to humans due to severe respiratory distress.

Signs and Symptoms:

The symptoms of Influenza A (H1N1) is similar to the symptoms of regular seasonal flu.

1. fever
2. headache
3. fatigue
4. cough
5. sore throat
6. sneezing
7. runny nose
8. chills
9. muscle or joint pains
10. lack of appetite
11. diarrhea
12. nausea

Mode of Transmission

1. It is not transmitted by eating thoroughly cooked pork.
2. Exposure to droplets from the cough and sneeze of the infected person.
3. Touching things with the virus on it.
4. Touching the mouth or nose of an infected person.

Prevention:

A. Observe personal hygiene practices:

1. Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze.
2. Regularly wash your hands with soap and water.
3. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
4. Avoid spitting in public places.
5. Avoid close contact with sick people.
6. Take vitamins.
7. Increase your body's resistance by having adequate rest.
8. Drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious food.
9. Be physically active.
10. Have at least 6 hours of sleep.
11. Manage your stress.

B. In the event that you become ill or manifest symptoms of any kind of flu, you are advised to take precautionary measure to prevent the spread of the disease.

1. Stay at home and keep away from people.
2. Use a face mask.
3. Take adequate rest and plenty of fluids.
4. Seek medical consultation.