H1N1 is the very clinical-sounding official name for Swine Flu. (So named because the virus is very similar to one carried by pigs.) It’s a flu virus and it spreads in the same way as seasonal flu: through direct contact with people who are already infected; through airborne cough and sneeze germs; and from sharing drinks and cutlery.
Symptom summary
- Aching muscles
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Fever
- Runny nose
- Diarrhoea or vomiting
- Headaches
- Shortness of breath
Prevention tips
Concentrate on hand-hygiene!
Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Help protect yourself from H1N1 Virus.
Don’t give germs a chance!
Clean your bathroom and kitchen surfaces constantly — and always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
Get vaccinated!
The fewer people who contract Swine Flu, the more difficult it is for the virus to infect others.
Top up your vegetables!
Eating plenty of fresh vegetables especially dark green, red or yellow vegetables which are rich in vitamins and antioxidants will ensure your immune system is better able to fight off any infections.
Mythbusters
Vaccines make viruses immune — in the same way that widespread use of antibiotics created evolved germs…
No. Vaccines work by introducing a harmless version of a particular virus to your body. So when the harmful variant arrives, your immune system knows what to look for and how to deal with it. This isn’t making viruses immune — it’s making you immune.
Medical source : British health authority
*Washing hands regularly with soap and water is a recommended method of helping prevent transmission of infections including swine flu. Please follow any additional precautions recommended by health authorities. Avoid contact with infected animals/individuals as far as possible. Issued in public interest by Lifebuoy.