Recent reports of Bollywood actor Sonam Kapoor having tested positive for H1N1 and more than 1000 people having succumbed to the disease around the country, we are worried about our health and yours too.
The sudden change in weather and non-seasonal rains aren’t doing any good since the swine flu virus spreads in damp, humid places. While Sonam Kapoor has been rushed back to Mumbai for some TLC and a speedy recovery, we are still surrounded by the virus which is spreading in super speed. Gujarat and Rajasthan being the worst affected places, swine flu is indeed becoming a threat for people all around the country.
Detection
Dr. Behram Pardiwala, Consultant Internal Medicine, Wockhardt Hospital, Central Mumbai says, “If the patient’s condition does not improve in 48 hours, taking a H1N1 test becomes mandatory. A throat swab has to be tested for H1 N1.”
“Some of the common symptoms are fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, body aches, headaches, chills, fatigue, diarrhea and vomiting,” Dr Mugdha Tapadiya, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, Fortis, Delhi explains.
Swine flu generally spreads from droplets that fall due to sneezing and coughing. A runny nose, irritation in the throat, abdominal ache and body ache are all symptoms that subside on their own within two to three days. But if the patient looks too serious and has diabetes, heart disease or is pregnant, then it is advised to get a checkup done immediately.
Temperature troubles
Dr. Pardiwala, speaking on the swine flu epidemic says, “Extreme weather conditions make the spread of the virus conducive. In fact, a cold and humid climate only increases the virus. And the kind of weather that we’ve been seeing in the last few days can result in more cases of influenza.”
Cold, damp climatic conditions along with rain can increase the chances of the virus spreading.
Safety precautions
Dr Tapadiya says, “Yearly flu vaccinations above six months of age is a very good way to prevent flu, including swine flu.”
But if you have not taken the flu shot, then maintain hygiene especially as the weather is playing havoc.
“In the next five to six days, if the temperature improves (becomes bright and sunny), we should expect cases of influenza to come down soon,” says Dr. Pardiwala
The immediate precaution that you must take is to isolate yourself, avoid public contact and wear a high density mask. Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently. Flu viruses can survive for two hours or longer on surfaces, such as doorknobs and countertops. So be sure to be virus-free.
Dr. Pardiwala also adds, “Don’t go out in crowded places and avoid going to work also. Stay home and rest until you feel better. Cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough.”
“If you do have swine flu (H1N1), you can give it to others starting about 24 hours before you develop symptoms and ending about seven days later,” shares Dr. Tapadiya.
So to keep yourself and your family swine flu-free follow these guidelines and stay healthy!
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