Search
Search titles only
By:
Search titles only
By:
Log in
Register
Search
Search titles only
By:
Search titles only
By:
Menu
Install the app
Install
Forums
New posts
All threads
Latest threads
New posts
Trending threads
Trending
Search forums
What's new
New posts
New ads
New profile posts
Latest activity
Free Ads
Latest reviews
Search ads
Members
Current visitors
New profile posts
Search profile posts
Contact us
Latest ads
Handmade Character Soft Toys
anil1961
Updated:
Yesterday at 2:11 PM
Bodim.lk out now !
Manoj Suranga Bandara
Updated:
Sunday at 3:05 AM
Power Lifting Lever Belt
SkullVamp
Updated:
Jun 13, 2026
Ad icon
port.lk Domain for sale
Lankan-Tech
Updated:
Jun 13, 2026
Colombo
Kaduwela - Two Storey House for Sale
dilrasan
Updated:
Jun 11, 2026
Electronics
Vehicles
Property
Search
Reply to thread
Forums
General
Health & Lifestyle
Ten Important Tips To Avoid Swine Flu
Get the App
JavaScript is disabled. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding.
You are using an out of date browser. It may not display this or other websites correctly.
You should upgrade or use an
alternative browser
.
Message
<blockquote data-quote="sirajstc" data-source="post: 6373928" data-attributes="member: 91140"><p>\ <p style="text-align: center"><span style="color: #0072a8"> <img src="http://i328.photobucket.com/albums/l336/glamgalz/funzug/imgs/informative/avoid_swine_flu_01.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></span></p> <p style="text-align: center"><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p> <p style="text-align: center"><span style="color: #0072a8"><img src="http://i328.photobucket.com/albums/l336/glamgalz/funzug/imgs/informative/avoid_swine_flu_02.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></span></p><p><span style="color: #ff0000"><strong>1. Wash your hands frequently</strong></span><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">Use the antibacterial soaps to cleanse your hands. Wash them often, at least 15 seconds and rinse with running water.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span><span style="color: #ff0000"> <strong>2. Get enough sleep</strong></span><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">Try to get 8 hours of good sleep every night to keep your immune system in top flu-fighting shape.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span><span style="color: #ff0000"> <strong>3. Drink sufficient water</strong></span><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water each day to flush toxins from your system and maintain good moisture and mucous production in your sinuses.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span><span style="color: #ff0000"> <strong>4. Boost your immune system</strong></span><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">Keeping your body strong, nourished, and ready to fight infection is important in flu prevention. So stick with whole grains, colorful vegetables, and vitamin-rich fruits.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span><span style="color: #ff0000"> <strong>5. Keep informed</strong></span><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">The government is taking necessary steps to prevent the pandemic and periodically release guidelines to keep the pandemic away. Please make sure to keep up to date on the information and act in a calm manner.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span><span style="color: #ff0000"> <strong>6. Avoid alcohol</strong></span><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">Apart from being a mood depressant, alcohol is an immune suppressant that can actually decrease your resistance to viral infections like swine flu. So stay away from alcoholic drinks so that your immune system may be strong.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span><span style="color: #ff0000"> <strong>7. Be physically active</strong></span><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">Moderate exercise can support the immune system by increasing circulation and oxygenating the body. For example brisk walking for 30-40 minutes 3-4 times a week will significantly perk up your immunity.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span><span style="color: #ff0000"> <strong>8. Keep away from sick people</strong></span><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">Flu virus spreads when particles dispersed into the air through a cough or sneeze reach someone else nose. So if you have to be around someone who is sick, try to stay a few feet away from them and especially, avoid physical contact.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span><span style="color: #ff0000"> <strong>9. Know when to get help</strong></span><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">Consult your doctor if you have a cough and fever and follow their instructions, including taking medicine as prescribed.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span><span style="color: #ff0000"> <strong>10. Avoid crowded areas</strong></span><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">Try to avoid unnecessary trips outside.</span></p><p> <strong>REGARDING SWINE FLU</strong><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span><span style="color: #ff0000"><strong>What is swine flu?</strong></span><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">Swine influenza (swine flu) is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses that causes regular outbreaks in pigs. People do not normally get swine flu, but human infections can and do happen.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span><span style="color: #ff0000"><strong>Is swine flu contagious?</strong></span><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">Yes, but it is unknown how easily the virus spreads between people.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span><span style="color: #ff0000"><strong>Who is at highest risk from H1N1 swine flu?</strong></span><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">Most cases of H1N1 swine flu have been in older children and young adults. It's not clear why, and whether this will change.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">But certain groups are at particularly high risk of severe disease or bad outcomes if they get the flu:</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Young children, especially those under 12 months of age</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Elderly people are at high risk of severe flu disease. But relatively few swine flu cases have been seen in people over age 65.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* People with cardiovascular conditions (except high blood pressure)</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* People with liver problems</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Kidney problems</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* People with blood disorders, including sickle cell disease</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* People with neurological disorders</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* People with neuromuscular disorders</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* People with metabolic disorders, including diabetes</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* People with immune suppression, including HIV infection and medications that suppress the immune system, such as cancer chemotherapy or anti-rejection drugs for transplants</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Residents of a nursing home or other chronic-care facility</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">People in these groups should seek medical care as soon as they get flu symptoms.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span><span style="color: #ff0000"><strong>If I think I have swine flu, what should I do? When should I see my doctor?</strong></span><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">If you have flu symptoms, stay home, and when you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue. Afterward, throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands. That will help prevent your flu from spreading.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">If you have only mild flu symptoms, you do not need medical attention unless your illness gets worse. But if you are in one of the groups at high risk of severe disease, contact your doctor at the first sign of flu-like illness. In such cases, see your doctor before rushing to an emergency room.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">But there are emergency warning signs.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">*Children* should be given *urgent* medical attention if they:</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Have fast breathing or trouble breathing</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Have bluish or gray skin color</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Are not drinking enough fluid</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Are not waking up or not interacting</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Have severe or persistent vomiting</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Are so irritable that the child does not want to be held</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Have flu-like symptoms that improve but then return with fever and a worse cough</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Have fever with a rash</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Have a fever and then have a seizure or sudden mental or behavioral change.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">*Adults* should seek *urgent* medical attention if they have:</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Sudden dizziness</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Confusion</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Severe or persistent vomiting</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Flu-like symptoms that improve, but then come back with worsening fever or cough</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">Keep in mind that your doctor will not be able to determine whether you have swine flu, but he or she may take a sample from you and send it to a state health department lab for testing to see if it's swine flu. If your doctor suspects swine flu, he or she would be able to write you a prescription for Tamiflu or Relenza.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">These antiviral medications aren't a question of life or death for the vast majority of people. .</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">If you have any flu-like symptoms contact or see a doctor for treatment and STAY HOME for your own well being and the well being of others.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">To avoid the spread of flu:</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze;</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or with an alcohol-based hand cleaner;</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth; and</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Avoid close contact with sick people, including kissing, sharing eating utensils, or drinking from the same container.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">Swine flu symptoms are the same as a regular flu and range from mild to severe</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Fever;</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Cough;</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Sore throat;</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Body aches;</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Headache; and</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Chills and fatigue.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">Symptoms of swine flu in people may also include lethargy, loss of appetite and coughing. Some people with swine flu also have reported runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">Seek immediate medical care if you have:</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Difficulty in breathing or shortness of breath;</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen;</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Confusion; or</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Severe or persistent vomiting.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span><strong><span style="color: #ff0000">How does swine flu spread? Is it airborne?</span></strong><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">The new swine flu virus apparently spreads just like regular flu. You could pick up germs directly from droplets from the cough or sneeze of an infected person, or by touching an object they recently touched, and then touching your eyes, mouth, or nose, delivering their germs for your own infection. That's why you should make washing your hands a habit, even when you're not ill. Infected people can start spreading flu germs up to a day before symptoms start, and for up to seven days after getting sick.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">The swine flu virus can become airborne if you cough or sneeze without covering your nose and mouth, sending germs into the air. Studies suggest that swine flu spreads less easily by small, airborne droplets than does seasonal flu. But it does spread by this route, and it may begin to spread even more readily as the new virus fully adapts to humans.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">The new swine flu virus is a human virus spread by people and not by pigs. The only way to get the new swine flu is from another person.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span><span style="color: #ff0000"><strong>How is swine flu treated?</strong></span><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">Pandemic swine flu virus is sensitive to the antiviral drugs Tamiflu and Relenza. The drugs are most effective when taken within 48 hours of the start of flu symptoms. But not everyone needs those drugs. Most people who have come down with swine flu have recovered without treatment.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">Tamiflu or Relenza may also be used to prevent swine flu.& "can be considered" for people at high risk of severe flu illness who come into close contact with someone who has the flu.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span><span style="color: #ff0000"><strong>Is there a vaccine against the new swine flu virus?</strong></span><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">Not yet..</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span><span style="color: #ff0000"><strong>How can I prevent swine flu infection?</strong></span><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">Following steps are recommended-</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. Or use an alcohol-based hand cleaner if soap and water are not available.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Avoid close contact -- that is, being within 6 feet -- with people who have flu-like symptoms.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Avoid touching your mouth, nose, or eyes. That's not easy to do, so keep those hands clean.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* If you have flu-like symptoms -- fever plus at least cough or sore throat or other flu symptoms -- stay home for seven days after symptoms begin or until you've been symptom-free for 24 hours -- whichever is longer.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Wear a face mask (consider using an N95 respirator) if you must come into close contact with a sick person. "Close contact" means within 6 feet. Note: There is no definitive proof that a face mask prevents flu transmission. Do not rely solely on a face mask to prevent infection.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Wear an N95 respirator if helping a sick person with a nebulizer, inhaler, or other respiratory treatment. Note: There is no definitive proof that a respirator prevents flu transmission. Do not rely solely on a respirator to prevent infection.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* People who have or are suspected of having swine flu should wear a face mask, if available and tolerable, when sharing common spaces with other household members, when outside the home, or when near children or infants.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Breastfeeding mothers with swine flu symptoms should express their breast milk, and the child should be fed by someone else.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span><span style="color: #ff0000"><strong>Should I wear a face mask or respirator?</strong></span><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">Every day, newspapers carry pictures of people wearing face masks to prevent swine flu transmission. But very little is known about whether face masks actually protect against the flu.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">There's a difference between a face mask and a respirator. A face mask does not seal tightly to the face. Face masks include masks labeled as surgical, dental, medical procedure, isolation, or laser masks. Respirators are N95- or higher-rated filtering face pieces that fit snugly to the face. Respirators filter out virus particles when correctly adjusted -- which is not as simple as it sounds. But it's hard to breathe through them for extended periods, and they cannot be worn by </span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">children or by people with facial hair.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">People who have flu-like symptoms should carry disposable tissues to cover their coughs and sneezes. When going out in public, or when sharing common spaces around the home with family members, they should put on a face mask -- if one is available and tolerable.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">People not at risk of severe flu illness can best protect themselves from swine flu with frequent hand washing and by staying at least 6 feet away from people with flu symptoms. But if swine flu is circulating in the community, a face mask or respirator may be protective in crowded public places.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">People at increased risk of severe flu illness -- pregnant women, for example -- should add a face mask to these tried-and-true precautions when providing assistance to a person with flu-like illness. And anyone else who cannot avoid close contact with someone who has swine flu (if you must hold a sick infant, for example) may try using a face mask or respirator.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span><span style="color: #ff0000"><strong>How long does the flu virus survive on surfaces?</strong></span><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">Bugs can survive for hours on surfaces. One study showed that flu viruses can live for up to 48 hours on hard, nonporous surfaces such as stainless steel and for up to 12 hours on cloth and tissues. The virus seems to survive for only minutes on your hands -- but that's plenty of time for you to transfer it to your mouth, nose, or eyes.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span><span style="color: #ff0000"><strong>What else should I be doing during the swine flu pandemic?</strong></span><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">Keep informed of what's going on in your community. Your state and local health departments may have important information if swine flu develops in your area. For instance, parents might want to consider what they would do if their child's school temporarily closed because of flu. Don't panic, but a little planning wouldn't hurt. To plan for a pandemic:</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Store a two-week supply of water and food. During a pandemic, if you cannot get to a store, or if stores are out of supplies, it will be important for you to have extra supplies on hand. This can be useful in other types of emergencies, such as power outages and disasters.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Periodically check your regular prescription drugs to ensure a continuous supply in your home.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Have any nonprescription drugs and other health supplies on hand, including pain relievers, stomach remedies, cough and cold medicines, fluids with electrolytes, and vitamins.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Talk with family members and loved ones about how they would be cared for if they got sick, or what will be needed to care for them in your home.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Volunteer with local groups to prepare and assist with emergency response.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">* Get involved in your community as it works to prepare for an influenza pandemic.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span><span style="color: #ff0000"><strong>How severe is swine flu?</strong></span><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">Severity of cases in the current swine flu outbreak has varied widely, from mild cases to fatalities. Most cases have been mild, but there have been a number of deaths and hundreds of hospitalizations -- mostly in young people aged 5 to 24.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">Like seasonal flu, children who get swine flu can have serious neurological complications such as seizures and Reye's syndrome. But as with seasonal flu, these complications fortunately are rare.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">Studies of the swine flu virus show that it is more infectious to lung cells than are seasonal flu viruses. But studies also suggest that the swine flu virus is less well adapted to humans and may be harder to inhale deep into the lungs.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">Flu viruses change all the time, and the way the pandemic swine flu virus evolved suggests that it is particularly liable to swap gene segments with other flu viruses. But so far the swine flu virus hasn't changed much. That's good news, as the vast majority of swine flu cases have been mild.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">It's impossible to know whether the virus will become more deadly. Scientists are watching closely to see which way the new swine flu virus is heading -- but health experts warn that flu viruses are notoriously hard to predict.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0072a8">But there's a lot of planning you can do. It's possible some schools in your community may temporarily close, or even that major gatherings may be canceled. So make contingency plans just in case you are affected.</span></p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="sirajstc, post: 6373928, member: 91140"] \ [CENTER][COLOR=#0072a8] [IMG]http://i328.photobucket.com/albums/l336/glamgalz/funzug/imgs/informative/avoid_swine_flu_01.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://i328.photobucket.com/albums/l336/glamgalz/funzug/imgs/informative/avoid_swine_flu_02.jpg[/IMG][/COLOR][/CENTER] [COLOR=#ff0000][B]1. Wash your hands frequently[/B][/COLOR][COLOR=#0072a8] Use the antibacterial soaps to cleanse your hands. Wash them often, at least 15 seconds and rinse with running water. [/COLOR][COLOR=#ff0000] [B]2. Get enough sleep[/B][/COLOR][COLOR=#0072a8] Try to get 8 hours of good sleep every night to keep your immune system in top flu-fighting shape. [/COLOR][COLOR=#ff0000] [B]3. Drink sufficient water[/B][/COLOR][COLOR=#0072a8] Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water each day to flush toxins from your system and maintain good moisture and mucous production in your sinuses. [/COLOR][COLOR=#ff0000] [B]4. Boost your immune system[/B][/COLOR][COLOR=#0072a8] Keeping your body strong, nourished, and ready to fight infection is important in flu prevention. So stick with whole grains, colorful vegetables, and vitamin-rich fruits. [/COLOR][COLOR=#ff0000] [B]5. Keep informed[/B][/COLOR][COLOR=#0072a8] The government is taking necessary steps to prevent the pandemic and periodically release guidelines to keep the pandemic away. Please make sure to keep up to date on the information and act in a calm manner. [/COLOR][COLOR=#ff0000] [B]6. Avoid alcohol[/B][/COLOR][COLOR=#0072a8] Apart from being a mood depressant, alcohol is an immune suppressant that can actually decrease your resistance to viral infections like swine flu. So stay away from alcoholic drinks so that your immune system may be strong. [/COLOR][COLOR=#ff0000] [B]7. Be physically active[/B][/COLOR][COLOR=#0072a8] Moderate exercise can support the immune system by increasing circulation and oxygenating the body. For example brisk walking for 30-40 minutes 3-4 times a week will significantly perk up your immunity. [/COLOR][COLOR=#ff0000] [B]8. Keep away from sick people[/B][/COLOR][COLOR=#0072a8] Flu virus spreads when particles dispersed into the air through a cough or sneeze reach someone else nose. So if you have to be around someone who is sick, try to stay a few feet away from them and especially, avoid physical contact. [/COLOR][COLOR=#ff0000] [B]9. Know when to get help[/B][/COLOR][COLOR=#0072a8] Consult your doctor if you have a cough and fever and follow their instructions, including taking medicine as prescribed. [/COLOR][COLOR=#ff0000] [B]10. Avoid crowded areas[/B][/COLOR][COLOR=#0072a8] Try to avoid unnecessary trips outside.[/COLOR] [B]REGARDING SWINE FLU[/B][COLOR=#0072a8] [/COLOR][COLOR=#ff0000][B]What is swine flu?[/B][/COLOR][COLOR=#0072a8] Swine influenza (swine flu) is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses that causes regular outbreaks in pigs. People do not normally get swine flu, but human infections can and do happen. [/COLOR][COLOR=#ff0000][B]Is swine flu contagious?[/B][/COLOR][COLOR=#0072a8] Yes, but it is unknown how easily the virus spreads between people. [/COLOR][COLOR=#ff0000][B]Who is at highest risk from H1N1 swine flu?[/B][/COLOR][COLOR=#0072a8] Most cases of H1N1 swine flu have been in older children and young adults. It's not clear why, and whether this will change. But certain groups are at particularly high risk of severe disease or bad outcomes if they get the flu: * Young children, especially those under 12 months of age * Elderly people are at high risk of severe flu disease. But relatively few swine flu cases have been seen in people over age 65. * People with cardiovascular conditions (except high blood pressure) * People with liver problems * Kidney problems * People with blood disorders, including sickle cell disease * People with neurological disorders * People with neuromuscular disorders * People with metabolic disorders, including diabetes * People with immune suppression, including HIV infection and medications that suppress the immune system, such as cancer chemotherapy or anti-rejection drugs for transplants * Residents of a nursing home or other chronic-care facility People in these groups should seek medical care as soon as they get flu symptoms. [/COLOR][COLOR=#ff0000][B]If I think I have swine flu, what should I do? When should I see my doctor?[/B][/COLOR][COLOR=#0072a8] If you have flu symptoms, stay home, and when you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue. Afterward, throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands. That will help prevent your flu from spreading. If you have only mild flu symptoms, you do not need medical attention unless your illness gets worse. But if you are in one of the groups at high risk of severe disease, contact your doctor at the first sign of flu-like illness. In such cases, see your doctor before rushing to an emergency room. But there are emergency warning signs. *Children* should be given *urgent* medical attention if they: * Have fast breathing or trouble breathing * Have bluish or gray skin color * Are not drinking enough fluid * Are not waking up or not interacting * Have severe or persistent vomiting * Are so irritable that the child does not want to be held * Have flu-like symptoms that improve but then return with fever and a worse cough * Have fever with a rash * Have a fever and then have a seizure or sudden mental or behavioral change. *Adults* should seek *urgent* medical attention if they have: * Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath * Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen * Sudden dizziness * Confusion * Severe or persistent vomiting * Flu-like symptoms that improve, but then come back with worsening fever or cough Keep in mind that your doctor will not be able to determine whether you have swine flu, but he or she may take a sample from you and send it to a state health department lab for testing to see if it's swine flu. If your doctor suspects swine flu, he or she would be able to write you a prescription for Tamiflu or Relenza. These antiviral medications aren't a question of life or death for the vast majority of people. . If you have any flu-like symptoms contact or see a doctor for treatment and STAY HOME for your own well being and the well being of others. To avoid the spread of flu: * Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze; * Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or with an alcohol-based hand cleaner; * Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth; and * Avoid close contact with sick people, including kissing, sharing eating utensils, or drinking from the same container. Swine flu symptoms are the same as a regular flu and range from mild to severe * Fever; * Cough; * Sore throat; * Body aches; * Headache; and * Chills and fatigue. Symptoms of swine flu in people may also include lethargy, loss of appetite and coughing. Some people with swine flu also have reported runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Seek immediate medical care if you have: * Difficulty in breathing or shortness of breath; * Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen; * Confusion; or * Severe or persistent vomiting. [/COLOR][B][COLOR=#ff0000]How does swine flu spread? Is it airborne?[/COLOR][/B][COLOR=#0072a8] The new swine flu virus apparently spreads just like regular flu. You could pick up germs directly from droplets from the cough or sneeze of an infected person, or by touching an object they recently touched, and then touching your eyes, mouth, or nose, delivering their germs for your own infection. That's why you should make washing your hands a habit, even when you're not ill. Infected people can start spreading flu germs up to a day before symptoms start, and for up to seven days after getting sick. The swine flu virus can become airborne if you cough or sneeze without covering your nose and mouth, sending germs into the air. Studies suggest that swine flu spreads less easily by small, airborne droplets than does seasonal flu. But it does spread by this route, and it may begin to spread even more readily as the new virus fully adapts to humans. The new swine flu virus is a human virus spread by people and not by pigs. The only way to get the new swine flu is from another person. [/COLOR][COLOR=#ff0000][B]How is swine flu treated?[/B][/COLOR][COLOR=#0072a8] Pandemic swine flu virus is sensitive to the antiviral drugs Tamiflu and Relenza. The drugs are most effective when taken within 48 hours of the start of flu symptoms. But not everyone needs those drugs. Most people who have come down with swine flu have recovered without treatment. Tamiflu or Relenza may also be used to prevent swine flu.& "can be considered" for people at high risk of severe flu illness who come into close contact with someone who has the flu. [/COLOR][COLOR=#ff0000][B]Is there a vaccine against the new swine flu virus?[/B][/COLOR][COLOR=#0072a8] Not yet.. [/COLOR][COLOR=#ff0000][B]How can I prevent swine flu infection?[/B][/COLOR][COLOR=#0072a8] Following steps are recommended- * Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. Or use an alcohol-based hand cleaner if soap and water are not available. * Avoid close contact -- that is, being within 6 feet -- with people who have flu-like symptoms. * Avoid touching your mouth, nose, or eyes. That's not easy to do, so keep those hands clean. * If you have flu-like symptoms -- fever plus at least cough or sore throat or other flu symptoms -- stay home for seven days after symptoms begin or until you've been symptom-free for 24 hours -- whichever is longer. * Wear a face mask (consider using an N95 respirator) if you must come into close contact with a sick person. "Close contact" means within 6 feet. Note: There is no definitive proof that a face mask prevents flu transmission. Do not rely solely on a face mask to prevent infection. * Wear an N95 respirator if helping a sick person with a nebulizer, inhaler, or other respiratory treatment. Note: There is no definitive proof that a respirator prevents flu transmission. Do not rely solely on a respirator to prevent infection. * People who have or are suspected of having swine flu should wear a face mask, if available and tolerable, when sharing common spaces with other household members, when outside the home, or when near children or infants. * Breastfeeding mothers with swine flu symptoms should express their breast milk, and the child should be fed by someone else. [/COLOR][COLOR=#ff0000][B]Should I wear a face mask or respirator?[/B][/COLOR][COLOR=#0072a8] Every day, newspapers carry pictures of people wearing face masks to prevent swine flu transmission. But very little is known about whether face masks actually protect against the flu. There's a difference between a face mask and a respirator. A face mask does not seal tightly to the face. Face masks include masks labeled as surgical, dental, medical procedure, isolation, or laser masks. Respirators are N95- or higher-rated filtering face pieces that fit snugly to the face. Respirators filter out virus particles when correctly adjusted -- which is not as simple as it sounds. But it's hard to breathe through them for extended periods, and they cannot be worn by children or by people with facial hair. People who have flu-like symptoms should carry disposable tissues to cover their coughs and sneezes. When going out in public, or when sharing common spaces around the home with family members, they should put on a face mask -- if one is available and tolerable. People not at risk of severe flu illness can best protect themselves from swine flu with frequent hand washing and by staying at least 6 feet away from people with flu symptoms. But if swine flu is circulating in the community, a face mask or respirator may be protective in crowded public places. People at increased risk of severe flu illness -- pregnant women, for example -- should add a face mask to these tried-and-true precautions when providing assistance to a person with flu-like illness. And anyone else who cannot avoid close contact with someone who has swine flu (if you must hold a sick infant, for example) may try using a face mask or respirator. [/COLOR][COLOR=#ff0000][B]How long does the flu virus survive on surfaces?[/B][/COLOR][COLOR=#0072a8] Bugs can survive for hours on surfaces. One study showed that flu viruses can live for up to 48 hours on hard, nonporous surfaces such as stainless steel and for up to 12 hours on cloth and tissues. The virus seems to survive for only minutes on your hands -- but that's plenty of time for you to transfer it to your mouth, nose, or eyes. [/COLOR][COLOR=#ff0000][B]What else should I be doing during the swine flu pandemic?[/B][/COLOR][COLOR=#0072a8] Keep informed of what's going on in your community. Your state and local health departments may have important information if swine flu develops in your area. For instance, parents might want to consider what they would do if their child's school temporarily closed because of flu. Don't panic, but a little planning wouldn't hurt. To plan for a pandemic: * Store a two-week supply of water and food. During a pandemic, if you cannot get to a store, or if stores are out of supplies, it will be important for you to have extra supplies on hand. This can be useful in other types of emergencies, such as power outages and disasters. * Periodically check your regular prescription drugs to ensure a continuous supply in your home. * Have any nonprescription drugs and other health supplies on hand, including pain relievers, stomach remedies, cough and cold medicines, fluids with electrolytes, and vitamins. * Talk with family members and loved ones about how they would be cared for if they got sick, or what will be needed to care for them in your home. * Volunteer with local groups to prepare and assist with emergency response. * Get involved in your community as it works to prepare for an influenza pandemic. [/COLOR][COLOR=#ff0000][B]How severe is swine flu?[/B][/COLOR][COLOR=#0072a8] Severity of cases in the current swine flu outbreak has varied widely, from mild cases to fatalities. Most cases have been mild, but there have been a number of deaths and hundreds of hospitalizations -- mostly in young people aged 5 to 24. Like seasonal flu, children who get swine flu can have serious neurological complications such as seizures and Reye's syndrome. But as with seasonal flu, these complications fortunately are rare. Studies of the swine flu virus show that it is more infectious to lung cells than are seasonal flu viruses. But studies also suggest that the swine flu virus is less well adapted to humans and may be harder to inhale deep into the lungs. Flu viruses change all the time, and the way the pandemic swine flu virus evolved suggests that it is particularly liable to swap gene segments with other flu viruses. But so far the swine flu virus hasn't changed much. That's good news, as the vast majority of swine flu cases have been mild. It's impossible to know whether the virus will become more deadly. Scientists are watching closely to see which way the new swine flu virus is heading -- but health experts warn that flu viruses are notoriously hard to predict. But there's a lot of planning you can do. It's possible some schools in your community may temporarily close, or even that major gatherings may be canceled. So make contingency plans just in case you are affected.[/COLOR] [/QUOTE]
Insert quotes…
Verification
Asuwa dahayen wadi kalama keeyada?
Post reply
Top
Bottom