Influenza A (H1N1) – Swine Flu

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In May 22, 2009, the Philippines confirmed its first case of Influenza A(H1N1). As of July 13, 2009, the Philippines has reported 2,668 confirmed Influenza A(H1N1) cases, with 559 new cases, 3 deaths, and 2,543 people who have fully recovered from the illness.

According to the Department of Health, the Influenza A(H1N1) strain that has spread in the Philippines is a mild form of the virus which is the reason for the low death count. However, the virus can still mutate into a much stronger strain, so the public is advised to stay vigilant.

It is still unknown how severe the virus will be in the general population. There is also no approved cure for the illness. What is evident is that Influenza A(H1N1) is highly contagious and can be easily spread through coughing or sneezing by people with Influenza A(H1N1), and by touching things with the virus on it then touching one’s mouth, nose or eyes.

FAQs about Influenza A(H1N1) Swine Flu Virus

Q: What is Influenza A(H1N1) Swine Flu?

A: Influenza A(H1N1), also known as the swine flu, is a respiratory infection caused by a new virus called novel H1N1. Since 2009, the disease has become a pandemic, and has spread from Mexico, the United States, Asia, and the entire world. The World Health Organization has since declared the Influenza A(H1N1) disease as the first pandemic of the century.

Q: How do I know if I am infected with Influenza A(H1N1) Swine Flu Virus?

A: Symptoms start to appear within 7 to 10 days of exposure to the virus. The following are some of the most common symptoms of Swine Flu:

• Fever (which lasts for several days)
• Headaches
• Muscle/Joint pain
• Sore Throat
• Chills
• Runny Nose
• Lack of Appetite
• Coughs
• Diarrhea

Q: How severe is illness associated with the virus?

A: It is not known at this time how severe this virus will be in the general population. Experts are studying the medical histories of people who have been infected with this virus to determine whether some people may be at greater risk from infection, serious illness, or hospitalization from the virus.

Q: How does Influenza A(H1N1) virus spread?

A: Coughing or sneezing by people with influenza.

Touching things with flu viruses on it and then touching one’s mouth, nose or eyes.

Q: How long can an infected person spread Influenza A(H1N1) to others?

A: Infected person maybe infectious from one day before he develop symptom to up to 7 days after he got sick. Children might potentially be contagious for longer periods.

Q: Is vaccine available to protect people from getting infected with AH1N1?

A: No, at present there is no vaccine against this virus.

Q: Are there medicines to treat infection with AH1N1?

A: Yes. Oseltamivirr or Zanamivir are the recommended drugs to treat and or prevent infection with this virus. You have to consult a doctor before using these drugs to avoid resistance.

Q: How do we prepare ourselves against the Influenza A(H1N1)?

A: Prevention is always better than Cure:

• Always observe proper hygiene. Regularly wash your hands and carry sanitizers in your pocket.
• Cover your nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing. This prevents the spread of the disease.
• Avoid touching your hands, nose or mouth. Germs can spread this way.
• Increase body resistance by:
  • Having a well-balanced diet
  • Get 8 hours of sleep
  • Drink plenty of fluids
  • Manage stress
  • Exercise
  • Social Distancing (Avoid crowded areas, avoid close contact with sick people, etc)