I have posted at my Facebook an article by the Flu Resource Centre on this topic. Actually, this morning at my workplace we have a briefing on Swine Flu. Very briefly we touched on Swine Flu situation in Toronto, in other proviinces and cities of Canada. The unique symptoms of H1N1, the H1N1 vaccination and some precautionary measures we may need at the workplace. The most effective precautionary measure is constant and proper handwash with soap.
Hand sanitizor will also help.
Don't touch your face, epecially the mouth, nose and eyes with your hands.
Stay alert. Stay home if you or family members have flu like symtoms. Check with your family doctor and health authority if required.
The prominant symtoms of Swine Flu:
- high body temperative of 38 degrees celsius
- breathing difficulty
- chest discomfort,
- severe chest pain
- sometimes abdominal pain
- sometimes vomiting
Here below is the abstract regarding the main difference between Swine Flu and seasonal flu:
Quote:
Similarities
- Symptoms: Symptoms of H1N1 and seasonal flu are very similar, and include fever, body aches, headache, sore throat, cough, runny/stuffy nose, chills, fatigue, and possibly diarrhea and/or vomiting.
- How it's spread: The spread of the H1N1 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 by people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.
Differences
- Who is impacted: While everyone is at risk for contracting H1N1, so far the number of cases and deaths reported from H1N1 are less among the people over the age of 64 than that of the seasonal flu. In addition, the CDC reports that "novel H1N1 flu has caused greater disease burden in people younger than 25 years of age than older people." (cite: http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/qa.htm)
- Vaccinations: Currently there is no vaccination against H1N1. However, a vaccination is being developed and will likely be available later this year. The seasonal flu has a vaccine developed annually in order to help people protect themselves. Find out more information about how to protect yourself against seasonal flu by visiting info.findaflushot.com and read our H1N1 blog for the latest information on H1N1 and vaccine development.
How can I tell if I have H1N1 instead of seasonal flu?
Because symptoms of seasonal flu are very similar to H1N1, you will not be able to distinguish between H1N1 and seasonal flu on your own. If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms, you should contact your health care provider who will be able to evaluate your symptoms and possibly test for H1N1.
Unquote
Source: Flu Resource Centre:
Author's Note:
According to the latest TV news at 7:00 pm 29.10.2009, Swine flu vaccines are ready. More vaccines are coming and supply is ample. Family doctors will get their vaccine supply. Each doctor will get 500 doses according to the news. Stay tuned in for more updates.
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