Who doesn’t get the flu? Most people tend to ignore the flu and do not get treated at all. However, what they don’t know is that the flu can also lead to hospitalizations, and thousands of deaths are flu-related. According to the CDC, about 20% of Americans get the flu each year and I’m betting you wouldn’t want to be one of them. Fever, cough, headache, fatigue, runny nose. We’re all quite familiar with flu symptoms, and let’s face it, no one likes getting the flu. The best way to prevent the flu is to get a flu shot. It’s inexpensive, and more importantly very effective. Read on to find out more about it.
There are two kinds of flu vaccines that are available for both kids and adults. The traditional flu shot is an inactivated virus. It doesn’t cause the flu, so don’t worry; but it does have to be given intramuscularly. The other kind is a nasal flu vaccine known as FluMist which contains weakened viruses. Both types can sometimes have side effects such nasal congestion, fatigue, runny nose and headache. FluMist is only recommended for healthy people between two to 49 years old.
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Flu prevention is a goal that should be on everybody’s mind. So if you are asking if you need to get it, then the answer is a big yes. In fact, the CDC suggested that everyone should get vaccinated. If you are pregnant, or have a chronic medical condition, then you have more reason to get the flu shot. Children below five years old and people more than 50 years old should definitely get vaccinated as they are more prone to getting the flu. Health care workers and people who live in long-term care facilities also have higher risks for being infected with the flu virus and should get the shot. People taking care of those who are at risk for developing complications due to the flu (the elderly, cancer, AIDS patients, children less than 6 months old, etc) needs to get a flu vaccine as well. If they get the flu then they could easily infect the people they are taking care of; getting a flu vaccine will prevent that. If you belong to any of the groups of people mentioned above, then it is an absolute must for you to get the flu vaccine.
Although the general rule is that everyone should be vaccinated, there are some exemptions. People who have severe allergies to chicken eggs, or to an earlier flu shot should not get vaccinated. Also, children less than six months old should not get it. People with a moderate to severe illness accompanied by fever should also wait until they are better before they get the shot. If you have a history of or developed Guillain-Barre Syndrome after a previous flu shot, consult your doctor first about getting vaccinated or not.
If you often get the flu, and do not have an allergy to chicken eggs or to the shot, then don’t hesitate to get vaccinated. I suggest that you get the shot before the flu season begins. The best time to get it is in October or in November because it takes around two weeks for it to be effective. Don’t worry if the flu season has already started and you haven’t got the shot yet, you can actually get it anytime you wish.
What does people use to cure flu in 1980 or before the development in medicine. I am doing a speech in my communication class about revolution in flu. So can you guys give so suggestion or details.
How would you like to hear some objective, and less commercialized, information on whether, or not, you should get a flu shot? How will getting a flu shot help keep you protected, or not protected, from getting the flu in the next upcoming flu season?
Getting a flu shot in the U.S. Has never been easier. More than 130 million injectable doses, and 4.5 million nasal mist doses are available for this years upcoming flu season. In fact, the number of available doses seems to be growing each consecutive year, encouraging even relatively healthy individuals to take advantage of flu virus protection.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention claims, by certain reports, that an estimated 36,000 deaths a year are contributed by the flu. Although this yearly estimate figure seems rather high, consider that this figure covers mostly complications due to having the flu, like pneumonia. In all actuality, only around 1250 deaths a year, or less, is actually caused from the flu.
There are many reasons a person can get pneumonia, the flu is only one of several ways of developing it. So the scare tactics that are used to encourage flu vaccinations is way over hyped. You can learn more by going to the ‘Health Ranger’, Mike Adam’s newstarget web site.
Despite the scare strategies that are being used to get people to get a flu shot, only 1 in 4 babies actually get them, and many adults do not buy into the flu shot hype either. Why, then, don’t more adults take advantage of an easy opportunity to get a flu virus protection for themselves, or their children, if the vaccine supposedly boasts of an effective success rate as high as 70 to 80 percent?
It seems the number one reason, why many people do not get a flu shot, is really rather simple. Most Americans do not trust the flu vaccine. They believe it does not really work, and they also believe it can cause one to get the flu.
The flu is something you should take rather seriously, though, as it is very contagious, and easily spread by touching objects and breathing in of moist microscopic droplets. The flu, and complications from having the flu, can most definitely be a killer to those with weakened immune systems.
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But, does that imply that you should let scare tactics that the CDC and other health care organizations use to influence you, in seeing only one option as the only answer to this problem?
Absolutely not!
The flu vaccine in any form, whether it be nasal mist or injectable, can be considered basically worthless and should, in my opinion and that of many others, be avoided. I have never taken a flu shot personally, and I made that decision based on the knowledge that I did not like what can be in the vaccine itself. The flu vaccine, along with other immunization vaccinations can be loaded with toxic metals such as mercury and aluminum that are used as preservatives. These neurotoxic heavy metals are also known to be dangerous central nervous system poisons.
Many individuals with impaired immune systems do come down with the flu shortly after getting a flu injection. That is because a live virus is used in the vaccine. This live virus can weaken an individual’s, already, compromised immune system resistance even further. Does it make good sense to you that a person with a current health challenge, or even a healthy adult or child, should have their immune system resistance purposely lowered, or lowered even further if they are already health challenged?
I think I would rather take my chances on getting the flu, and allow myself sufficient rest and recovery time, than risk my central nervous system to being permanently damaged by toxic metal preservatives.
So, what can a person do to build up their immune system resistance, naturally, to avoid getting the flu and protect yourself? Taking a natural approach is not that hard to do if you know a few things.
Here are six different ways, and there are many more than these, that you can use to help protect yourself this flu season, and in all future flu epidemics.
1.Avoid processed sugar. Refined sugar will weaken your immune system almost immediately after you eat it.
2.Allow yourself plenty of rest , whether it is flu season or not.
3.Get extra vitamin D (sun exposure is best) or use sun lamps, or vitamin D supplements. Cod liver oil capsules can be used in winter months and you will be getting your vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids at the same time.
4.Manage your stress levels with exercise, meditation, and spiritual pursuits.
5.Regularly consume good bacteria nutrition (probiotics) in fermented foods and beverages.
6.Make a conscious effort to increase your daily fluid intake with more pure water.
Remember this important fact, there is only circumstantial evidence, at best, that supports the notion that getting a flu shot will help prevent you from getting the flu. God has really given us such wonderful bodies. If we make an honest attempt to eat less junk foods, replacing junk foods with more natural, whole, unprocessed fruits, vegetables, juicing, and using the six helpful tips mentioned above, you really will boost your immune system resistance to the flu, or any other contagious bacterial illness.
You really can, easily, make a difference in protecting yourself against getting a contagious illness this natural approach way. Once you have proven it to yourself, that it can be done this way, you will have more confidence to live this way on a more consistent basis. This approach also strengthens and boosts your overall good health status, naturally.
Buy less into the hype that big modern day medicine tells you, and question their empty solutions more often. Trust your inborn common sense more, in asking yourself, which of these two models really makes more sense in the long term, without unnatural interventions?
What are the symptoms of H1N1 flu? Symptoms are similar to those for seasonal influenza. Those symptoms include: ?Fever over 100oF* ?Cough and/or sore throat ?Body aches and headache. ?In addition, fatigue, lack of appetite, runny nose, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea can occur.
* Clinical Guard Provides non-contact thermometers to help you monitor your flu symptoms.
Who is at risk and should contact a doctor if they have these symptoms? ?Children under 2 years old ?Pregnant women ?Adults over 65 years old ?Residents of long-term care facilities ?People with chronic lung, heart, kidney or liver disease ?People with diabetes ?People with sickle cell anemia ?People with immunosuppression or receiving chemotherapy for cancer ?Anyone with fever and severe respiratory symptoms such as shortness of breath or difficulty breathing should contact their healthcare provider.
How long should people with flu-like illness stay home? People with flu symptoms should keep away from others as much as possible (do not travel, go to school, go to work, etc.) for at least 24 hours after the fever is gone without the use of fever-reducing medicine. ?This guidance does not apply to health care settings where the exclusion period should be continued for 7 days from symptom onset or until the resolution of symptoms, whichever is longer. ?Sick individuals should stay at home until the end of the exclusion period, to the extent possible, except when necessary to seek required medical care. ?CDC recommends this exclusion period regardless of whether or not antiviral medications are used.
How do people catch H1N1? You can become infected by the H1N1 virus when someone infected with H1N1 coughs or sneezes, releasing droplets carrying the virus near you. You can then take in the virus through your mouth, nose or eyes. You can also get the virus by touching a surface such as a countertop or doorknob that has become contaminated and then touching your mouth, nose or eyes.
How long are people contagious? Infected people can infect others beginning 1 day before symptoms start and up to 7 or more days after becoming sick. That means that you may be able to pass on the flu to someone else before you know you are sick, as well as while you are sick. Children, especially younger children, might potentially be contagious for longer periods.
How long can you be infected without showing symptoms/getting sick? Not all infected people get sick but, if an infected person develops symptoms, it usually happens 1-7 days after infection.
Should I wear a mask? A facemask or respirator may be considered, specifically for persons at increased risk of severe illness from influenza. ?Facemasks help stop droplets from being spread by the person wearing them. They do not protect against breathing in very small particle aerosols that may contain viruses. Facemasks should be used once and then thrown away in the trash. ?A respirator that fits snugly on the face can filter out virus-containing small particle aerosols that can be generated by an infected person, but compared with a facemask it is harder to breathe through a respirator for long periods of time. Respirators are not recommended for children or people who have facial hair. ?Neither a facemask nor a respirator will give complete protection from the flu. That is why it is important to wash your hands often, cover your coughs and sneezes with a handkerchief or your arm, and avoid crowds and gatherings during a pandemic.
How long can the H1N1 virus live on a countertop or other surface? The virus can live on hard surfaces for at least several hours and possibly more than a day. For that reason, it is important that you wash your hands after coughing or sneezing to avoid passing on the virus.
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How do I clean to get rid of influenza viruses? To prevent the spread of influenza virus it is important to keep surfaces (especially bedside tables, surfaces in the bathroom, kitchen counters and toys for children) clean by wiping them down with a household disinfectant according to directions on the product label.
Where do I get tested for H1N1? Individuals are no longer being tested for H1N1, because we know it is already in our community, and we no longer need to track it geographically. However, hospitalized patients with flu-like illness are being tested for it because what we are now trying to determine is if it is causing more serious illness, hospitalizations or deaths.
How should linens, eating utensils and dishes of persons infected with influenza virus be handled? ?Linens, eating utensils and dishes belonging to those who are sick do not need to be cleaned separately, but these items should be washed thoroughly before being used by anyone else. Linens (such as bed sheets and towels) should be washed by using household laundry soap and tumbled dry on a hot setting. To avoid contaminating themselves, individuals should transport dirty laundry in a bag or other container rather than handling it closely or for a prolonged period. Individuals should wash their hands with soap and water or alcohol-based hand rub immediately after handling dirty laundry. ?Eating utensils should be washed either in a dishwasher or by hand with water and soap.
If I have the flu, should I breast-feed my baby? ?Avoid contact with your baby until you have been on antiviral medicine for 48 hours, have not had a fever for 24 hours and you can control your coughs and sneezes. During this time, you do not have to stop breast-feeding. We encourage you to pump and have someone who is not ill feed breast milk to your baby until you can handle your baby without the risk of infection again. ?Once you have been cleared to have contact with your baby, please wear a mask and change into clean clothes until 7 days after the flu-like symptoms began to keep from spreading this new virus to your baby.
What if I have the flu and don’t have anyone else who can take care of my baby? If you are sick and there is no one else to care for your baby, wear a facemask, if available and tolerable, and cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
Is it ok to take medicine to treat or prevent flu while I am breast-feeding? Yes.
If my baby is sick, is it ok to breast-feed? Yes. One of the best things you can do for your sick baby is keep breast-feeding. ?Give your baby many chances to breastfeed throughout the illness. Babies who are sick need more fluids than when they are well. ?If your baby is too sick to breastfeed, he or she can drink your milk from a cup, bottle,syringe, or eye-dropper.
What should people with HIV/AIDS do if they have flu symptoms? HIV-infected people should do the same things as they would do for routine seasonal flu- contact your health care provider and follow his or her instructions.
When will H1N1 vaccine be available? The earliest we expect to receive a supply is in mid-October. It is possible that limited supplies of the vaccine will mean that those most at risk of severe infections will be first to get vaccinated. More information about when the vaccine will be available and who will get it will be publicized as soon as more is known.
Can the seasonal flu shot protect me against H1N1? No. But it is important to get a seasonal flu shot to help you avoid getting a co-infection and to limit opportunities for the H1N1 virus to become resistant to antiviral edications.
Can I get the seasonal flu shot and the H1N1 shot at the same time? Yes, although the seasonal flu shot is expected to be available earlier than the H1N1 vaccine, and the CDC recommends getting the seasonal flu shot as soon as it is available.
How will H1N1 vaccine be administered? For now, it is expected to be administered in two injections given 21 days apart. An aerosol (mist)vaccine is also being developed, but people with certain underlying health conditions will not be able to take it. Also, as more is known about the vaccine, administration guidelines may change.
Where can I get H1N1 vaccine? Local public health officials are working with a variety of partners to make the vaccine available in a variety of settings. Once details are finalized, the locations for the vaccine will be heavily publicized.
What will the H1N1 vaccine cost? The federal government is providing it at no charge. However, in some settings, administration fees will be charged.
Will the H1N1 vaccinations be mandatory? No.
What are antivirals? They are prescription medicines (pills, liquid or an inhaled powder) that fight against the flu by keeping flu viruses from reproducing in your body. ?If you get sick, antiviral drugs can make your illness milder and make you feel better faster. ?They may also prevent serious flu complications.
Can’t I just take antivirals if I get exposed to the flu? Antivirals are being recommended for treatment of H1N1, not for prophylaxis (to prevent symptoms) except for individuals who are high risk of complications (hospitalization or death) from the flu.
What antivirals are approved for use against Pandemic H1N1 flu? CDC recommends the use of oseltamivir or zanamivir for the treatment and/or prevention of infection with swine influenza viruses. However, some strains of H1N1 flu have been found to be resistant to oseltamivir (Tamiflu ). ?Oseltamivir (brand name Tamiflu)is approved to both treat and prevent influenza A and B virus infection in people one year of age and older. ?Zanamivir (brand name Relenza)is approved to treat influenza A and B virus infection in people 7 years and older and to prevent influenza A and B virus infection in people 5 years and older. ?Recommendations for using antiviral drugs for treatment or prevention of swine influenza will change as we learn more about this new virus.
Can I get swine flu from eating pork or ham? No, you cannot get H1N1 flu in that way. H1N1 is passed from person to person through coughing or sneezing, or by touching a surface that an infected person has coughed or sneezed on and then touching your mouth, nose or eyes.
I am in contact with pigs. Can I catch the flu from them? Yes. The H1N1 virus has been found in pigs in other countries, including Canada. To prevent flu viruses from spreading between people and pigs, it is important for people working with pigs to recognize the signs of flu in pigs. Typically a combination of signs will occur together in infected pigs. Signs of flu in pigs can include any of the following: ?Sudden onset of fever ?Lethargy, lack of alertness ?Going off feed (poor appetite) ?Coughing (barking) ?Discharge from the nose or eyes, eye redness or inflammation ?Sneezing ?Breathing difficulty
If pigs I am around have flu symptoms, what should I do? ?If a pig is showing these signs, even mildly, you should call your veterinarian. ?Do not allow sick pigs to enter your farm or facility and do not move sick pigs off your property.
Is there a risk from drinking water? Tap water that has been treated by conventional disinfection processes does not likely pose a risk for transmission of influenza viruses.
Thousands of people get the flu every year. There is no one sure fire way to cure the symptoms of the flu however there are hundreds of different ways to get relief from the flu. Everyone has their own way to cure their symptoms of the flu, and some ways work better for some and still others choose different methods. Traditional medicines, prescriptions, over the counter medications, homeopathic and herbal remedies all have ways to reduce the signs and symptoms of the flu. Its up to you to choose what works best for you.
Although the number one flu remedy is of course to not get the flu, but no matter how hard we try there is no sure way to avoid getting the flu. Even flu shots that are offered at hospitals, pharmacies and clinics don’t always prevent someone from getting the flu. Depending upon your beliefs will determine what flu remedies and preventions are right for you.
Herbs-
Elderberry extract is derived from the sambucus tree or shrub. The extract is used to treat flu like symptoms at first sight. Elderberry extract can be used in a juice or syrup to shorten the duration of cold and flu like symptoms. Elderberries contain potassium, vitamin C and anthocyanins, a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. Although there has been nothing proven on why it reduces the cold and flu the main theory is that elderberry has very high oxygen radical absorption capacity, reducing free radicals in the body.
Take 1 teaspoon of elderberry extract four to five times daily after the first sign of a cold or flu. Take it until symptoms subside, then 1 teaspoon daily for general health.
Boneset is another herb from genus Eupatorium of the flowering plants, which helps to lessen the symptoms of the flu as well. Normally it is ingested as a tea because of the toxic affects the plant can have if ingested whole. Boneset is known to reduce fever from viral or bacterial infections through the act of sweating. Additionally boneset promotes the removal of phlegm through coughing.
To make boneset infusion takes one ounce of dried boneset leaf and one quart of boiling water. Mix them in a quart mason jar and leave to steep for 4 hours. Strain out the dried herbs, reheat and drink. Lemon and honey can be added to taste.
Echinacea is another popular herb used to shorten the duration of cold and flu symptoms. Echinacea is believed to enhance the immune system. Echinacea is also a blood cleanser and signals the release for white blood cells to fight infection. In addition Echinacea is excellent for cold and flu prevention by keep the immune system strong and intact to fight off the attacks of bacteria and viruses.
Echinacea tinctures can be taken daily under the tongue for general health and 3-5 times a day during symptomatic times.
Abra Bath is an organic product you can add to your bath water to reduce body aches, congestion and relieve chills associated with the flu. Abra is formulated with specific organic herbs to relieve the symptoms of the flu.
Ginger is one of nature’s antiviral herbs. Ginger is used as an antiseptic, antioxidant and pain reliever. Ginger is used to treat colds, sore throats, inflammation, reduction of fever, and pain. Ginger can be used as a spice in food, hot tea, or in a smoothie.
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Homeopathic-
Oscillococcinum is a homeopathic medicine, which relieves symptoms of the flu. Originally manufactured in France and has been in used in over 50 countries for the past 65 years. Easily accessible in local vitamin stores, natural food stores, organic grocery stores and online through Boiron.
Over the Counter Medicine-
Flu Relief nasal spray is another way to relieve the flu symptoms. Nasal sprays relieve nasal congestion and blockage that can be caused by a cold or flu. Nasal sprays come in two forms decongestants and saline solutions. The decongestants clear the nasal passage and reduce stuffiness. Saline water solutions loosen the mucus in the nasal passage to relieve congestions. Saline solutions contain no medication but rely on the salt in to cleanse the nasal passage.
Acetaminophen, Tylenol, or Ibuprofen are over the counter pain relievers. These products can reduce fever, headaches or aching muscles caused by the flu.
Robitussin is an over the counter cough medicine the can quiet a persistent cough related to the flu or a cold. Robitussin is specially formulated to help with symptoms associated with the flu.
Vicks vapor rub is topical decongestant uses to relieve congestion associated with the flu. Over the counter decongestants help relieve congestion in the chest, nose and throat. Decongestants help to loosen mucus and excrete them out the body.
Throat lozenges are used for symptoms of a sore throat. Throat sprays have the same affect on sore throats.
Sudacare shower soothers are mint tablets that once added to the bath water creates non-medicated vapors of lavender, eucalyptus, menthol, and camphor. This helps sooth, relax and relieve symptoms of the flu such as aches, congestion and fatigue.
Natural-
Gargle with warm salt water to reduce a sore throat. Salt is used as an antiseptic and disinfects the throat of germs. It is natural and inexpensive and can be used as often as needed.
Rest is the most important part of recovering from the flu. The body is usually weak and drained from fighting off the flu virus that it is fatigued. Rest allows the body to recuperate after fighting against the flu.
Drink fluids. Water is the most important thing to drink, but other fluids include hot teas, Gatorades to replace electrolytes, or pedialyte. Avoid caffeinated drinks that will act as a diuretic. When your body is fighting an infection, it is easier to become dehydrated and with all the symptoms that you are experiencing from the flu you don’t want to add symptoms from dehydration. Fluids also flush out toxins or reminisce of infection.
Health juices such as mangosteen, noni, goji, aloe vera and acai berry are good replenishing drinks as well. In addition to keeping the body hydrated they have added vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to boost the bodies immune system.
Clean out your ears with hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide disinfects and kills germs. By putting a couple of drops in each ear you can kill cold and flu germs that can build up in the ear and cause infection. Use a cotton ball or Q-tip and allow the hydrogen peroxide to fizz and bubble. Drain from the ear with a tissue, then reapply until it no longer bubbles.
Garlic is one of food sources that has high anti-bacterial properties. It can be used to help fight infection within the body. Additionally it has the ability to boost the immune system.
Vitamin C is a natural cold reliever. It can be consumed through foods or supplement form. Vitamin C is prevalent in fresh fruits and vegetables. By consuming large quantities of vitamin C you can help the body fight infection and relieve symptoms of the flu.
Prescription Medication (Must be obtained through a medical professional)-
Tamiflu is a prescription medication used to treat symptoms of the flu. It decreases the severity of symptoms such as stuffy nose, cough, sore throat, fever/chills, aches, and tiredness. It also increases recovery time by 1-2 days.
Relenza additionally decreases flu symptoms and increases recovery time. Relenza stops the influenza virus from continuing to grow within the body. It can also prevent the flu inflection for people who are surrounded by infected persons.
So whatever remedy you choose to use, you have the option to choose how you treat your symptoms of a cold and flu this season. Remember that if your symptoms worsen it is recommended to see a physician to determine the type of strain you have. Always keep yourself informed and take steps to prevent getting the cold or flu.
Like people, pigs can get influenza (flu), but swine flu viruses aren’t the same as human flu viruses. Swine flu doesn’t often infect people, and the rare human cases that have occurred in the past have mainly affected people who had direct contact with pigs.
But the current “swine flu” outbreak is different. It’s caused by a new swine flu virus that has changed in ways that allow it to spread from person to person — and it’s happening among people who haven’t had any contact with pigs.
That makes it a human flu virus. To distinguish it both from flu viruses that infect mainly pigs and from the seasonal influenza A H1N1 viruses that have been in circulation for many years, the CDC calls the virus “novel influenza A (H1N1) virus” and the World Health Organization calls it “pandemic (H1N1) 2009.”
The CDC calls swine flu illness “H1N1 flu” and the World Health Organization calls it “pandemic influenza A (H1N1).”
What are swine flu symptoms?
Symptoms of swine flu are like regular flu symptoms and include – fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue. Many people with swine flu have had diarrhea and vomiting. Nearly everyone with flu has at least two of these symptoms. But these symptoms can also be caused by many other conditions. That means that you and your doctor can’t know, just based on your symptoms, if you’ve got swine flu. Health care professionals may offer a rapid flu test, although a negative result doesn’t necessarily mean you don’t have the flu.
Like seasonal flu, pandemic swine flu can cause neurologic symptoms in children. These events are rare, but, as cases associated with seasonal flu have shown, they can be very severe and often fatal. Symptoms include seizures or changes in mental status (confusion or sudden cognitive or behavioral changes). It’s not clear why these symptoms occur, although they may be caused by Reye’s syndrome. Reye’s syndrome usually occurs in children with a viral illness who have taken aspirin — something that should always be avoided.
Only lab tests can definitively show whether you’ve got swine flu. State health departments can do these tests.
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Who is at highest risk from H1N1 swine flu?
Most U.S. cases of H1N1 swine flu have been in older children and young adults. It’s not clear why, and it’s not clear 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
• People with kidney problems
• People with blood disorders, including sickle cell disease
• People with neurologic 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.
A striking number of adults who developed severe swine flu complications have been morbidly obese. However, obesity itself does not seem to be the issue. The vast majority of extremely obese people suffer respiratory problems and/or diabetes, which seem to be the underlying reason for their severe flu complications.
If I think I have swine flu, what should I do? When should I see my doctor?
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, the CDC recommends that people call or email their 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. Most U.S. swine flu patients have made a full recovery without antiviral drugs.
Recently I was knocked down by flu, I’m sorry that I didn’t give any response to you my friends. by VisualAge
Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a respiratory illness caused by viruses. There are many different types of flu, from swine flu to the most feared avian flu. This article, however, deals only with the so-called common or seasonal flu. The flu season usually starts in the fall and subsides in late spring. Because of its seasonality, the flu season differs between the Northern and the Southern hemisphere.
On the global scale, flu can affect tens of millions of people and cause 250,000 to 500,000 deaths each year. The United States CDC gives the following statistics. Yearly 5 to 20% of the population get the flu, 200,000 cases are hospitalized due to severe flu complications and 36,000 cases prove to be fatal. Annual healthcare costs approaches US billion
THE FLU is caused by types A, B and C. Each type consists of different subtypes and substrains with A and B being responsible for most epidemics.
(1) Influenza A viruses are of subtypes based on two proteins on the surface of the virus: the hemagglutinin (H) and the neuraminidase (N). The current subtypes of influenza A viruses in humans are A (H1N1) and A (H3N2).
(2) Influenza B viruses do not have subtypes but can be further broken down into different strains.
(3) Influenza C seems to be relatively benign compared to the first two and is not as contagious.
Like many viruses, influenza viruses change with time producing new strains each season. This change occurs by antigenic drift or shift.
(1) Antigenic drift is slow and can lead to new strains after several seasons and is the typical change observed in influenza type B viruses but can also occur in type A.
(2) Antigenic shift happens abruptly and creates a major change that can lead to a new subtype but only occurs in type A.
The influenza viruses attack the epithelial cells lining the respiratory tract starting from the nose, throat, and down to the lungs. They do this by binding using hemagglutinin and neuraminidase proteins on the cells’ surface.
Influenza symptoms may be mild to severe to life-threatening. Symptoms can include high fever, headache, chills, sore muscles, fatigue, dry cough, red, watery eyes, sore throat and runny or stuffy nose. The so-called “tummy flu” symptoms may also occur in children, which include abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea.
The flu symptoms shouldn’t be confused with the ordinary cold, which is another respiratory illness. A cold usually doesn’t cause high fever, muscle pains or stomach symptoms.
The incubation period of the flu can vary from a few days to a week. During this “asymptomatic period”, the infected person is already a carrier of the disease and is therefore highly contagious. The flu can last from a few days to less than two weeks. However, in certain cases, complications can develop which are potentially life-threatening. Some of these complications are bronchitis, pneumonia, sinusitis, and ear infections. Anybody can get the flu but those who are highly susceptible to the flu are young children, the elderly and those with existing chronic health conditions and weakened immune systems.
Flu is very contagious. Direct transmission occurs from person to person via droplets that are released when a person coughs or sneezes. Indirect transmission happens when droplets from an infected person are transferred to inanimate objects, which are then touched by another person.
Flu-like symptoms can also occur with many other diseases. It is therefore sometimes difficult for doctors to diagnose the illness. There are many laboratory tests which can confirm whether a person has the flu or not but they cost money and time and are therefore impractical. However, in times of outbreaks and epidemics, it is important to perform tests. Usually, flu cases are diagnosed based on tests performed in a few individuals within a group. If one or two persons test positive for the flu in a closed environment, then the likelihood of subsequent illnesses within the group as being flu is rather high. Samples for flu testing are usually secretions from the nose and the throat, collected either by sterile swab, nasal wash, or aspiration. There are rapid influenza tests which can give results in 30 minutes. The tests are 70% sensitive in detecting the flu and are prone to false negatives. Another alternative is the more reliable but time consuming viral culture which takes about 3 to 10 days.
Several antiviral pharmacological agents have been approved for the treatment of the flu. Because of the seasonal changes in the types and strains of influenza viruses the recommended anti-flu drugs may change. This season, Tamiflu is the choice for treatment and chemoprophylaxis of persons aged 1 year and older and Relenza is approved for treatment of persons aged 7 years and older. Currently, the CDC discourages the use of previously used anti-flu drugs such as Amantadine and Rimantadine because the current circulating strains of flu viruses are resistant to these drugs.
The ultimate preventive measure against the flu is vaccination. However, again due to the constantly changing nature of the influenza viruses, flu vaccines do not afford 100% and lifetime immunity against the flu. Each season, flu vaccines are updated by adding strains collected and identified from the previous season. Flu vaccines contain different strains of the influenza types A and B but not type C.
Based on the 2005 guidelines of the Federal Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), annual flu shots are recommended for children aged 6 months to 5 years old and adolescents up to 18 years old. Vaccination is also highly recommended for people in key professions which may expose them to the infection and spread it to others. These include health care professionals and those working and living in closed units such as dormitories. Flu shots are usually given prior to flu season and afford protection for about a year. However, it takes about two weeks before the protection kicks in.
Over the years, several types of flu vaccines have been developed.
(1) The intranasal vaccine is the live, attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV) made from living but weakened flu viruses. LAIV is prescribed for people aged 2 to 49 years old. LAIV should not be given to pregnant women, children under 2 years old, adults above 40 years old, and chronic medical conditions including compromised immune system disorders.
(2) The inactivated vaccine, the common flu shot is made from different strains of killed flu viruses. This vaccine is recommended for children from 6 months to 18 years old as well as those older than 50 years old. In addition, people who are not qualified to receive LAIV (as listed above) are recommended to have this vaccine.
Like all pharmacological agents, flu shots can have some side effects. Most of these side effects are mild. Rare severe side effects, mainly in the form of allergic reactions have been reported.
Some inactivated flu vaccines have contained thimerosal in the past, a form of mercury used as preservatives for vaccines. In recent years, there have been concerns about the link between thimerosal and autism in children. This controversy continues although no ample scientific evidence is available to prove this link.
Perhaps the main shortcoming of the flu shot is its efficacy, which is highly dependent on how well the vaccine is matched to the circulating influenza viruses of that season. For this reason, the efficacy of the vaccine in protecting healthy adults from the flu is only 70 to 90% and even less in children and the elderly.
The Global Influenza Surveillance Network (GISN) was set up in 1952 and currently includes more than 110 laboratories in 83 countries. It has recently set up FluNet, a web-based tool for surveillance, reporting, and alert mechanisms. The European Influenza Surveillance Scheme (EISS) issues a weekly report on influenza activity in 30 countries. It collects data from a network of more than 25,000 sentinel doctors covering a total population of 498 million people in Europe. In the US, the CDC is responsible for national influenza surveillance and is dependent on reports from more than 1500 sentinel doctors.
Google Flu Trends, being the new kid on the block, claims that it can estimate flu activity up “to two weeks faster than traditional flu surveillance systems” and bases its predictions on the number of people searching for flu-related topics. Actually its data compared well with the CDC’s. Google is now working together with the CDC in flu surveillance and their work has been published in the prestigious scientific journal Nature. Google Flu Trends also presents the data in graphs, maps, and animations which are easy to comprehend by the general public.
Don’t forget the CDC’s initiative “Take 3″ Steps To Fight The Flu; take time to get a flu vaccine, take everyday preventive actions and take flu antiviral drugs if your doctor recommends them.
And if you are still unlucky and get the flu, stay home from work or school including limiting contact with others, wash your hands often with soap and water and avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
The bird flu vaccine is a completely different vaccine than the standard flu shot. This bird flu vaccine will only protect against the bird flu and not any other strains of flu. There is not even a real bird flu vaccine available that we the public are able to get yet. It will be some time before we can get a bird flu vaccine.
The only known bird flu vaccine is still in the experimental stages and they do not even know yet how effective it will be, it may not work at all. We hear about the bird flu every day and about how many people it is going to kill throughout the world but to keep things in perspective it is important that you realize that very few people have actually caught the bird flu and even fewer have actually died from it and this is all without the help of a bird flu vaccine.
The main cases of those who have gotten this terrible bird flu are cases in which the people themselves were in contact with birds. Bird flu doe snot seem to be spreading from person to person at all so far so there is not as yet a huge demand for the bird flu vaccine. Especially not in most countries, Asia however could benefit largely from the use of an effective bird flu vaccine since this is where most people are catching bird flu.
The reason that scientist and the governments are so interested in developing a good and useful bird flu vaccine is because humans will not be able to stand up against the bird flu long when and if it starts being transferred from person to person. This is when we are going to really need the bird flu vaccine and that is why this vaccine is being worked on so much by the best minds in science.
Creating a good bird flu vaccine is proving to be a lot harder than researchers thought it was going to be due to how much this bird flu changes. It is always changing and developing in more ways and this makes it hard to make one bird flu vaccine that will work all of the time. The scientist working on the bird flu vaccine are monitoring the bird flu very well to watch for any significant changes that will affect the usability of the bird flu vaccine. All of the data that they collect can be used to make the bird flu vaccine more and more effective.
You do not want to mess with the flu during flu season. Flu season is a time of the year that everyone wishes would just go away but unfortunately flu season is one that we all have to live with and simply suffer through the best that we can. There are however some things that we can do to prepare for flu season as it approaches.
For example the best way for you to make sure that you don’t get the flu is to get a flu shot. The flu shot is available during flu season or just before it. You can get this shot in one of many different places, your regular doctors office can get you a flu shot during flu season as can one of the many flu season flu clinics that are set up each year.
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If you are in one of the priority groups you can even get your flu shot this flu season earlier than other people. Priority groups are people like doctors and nurses and care workers.
Flu season is all about taking care of yourself. If you want to keep from getting sick then you need to get yourself the flu shot this flu season as soon as you can.
Flu season is not a short season, at least it is not as short as we all would like. The flu season itself can go from October all the way to may. This is a significant chunk of the year and you do not want to be sick for the entire time do you? Of course not, that is why you are going to find out when you can get a flu shot this flu season. You should be able to get your flu shot this year in October or November at the earliest. From then on flu shots to prepare for flu season are all about the supply that is left.
There are other ways for you to prepare for flu season. Some doctors will tell you to start taking better care of yourself in order to get your immune system up to snuff in time for flu season. The healthier that you are the better you may fare during this year’s flu season. Take plenty of vitamins and minerals and eat well and dress warm and you might just be able to get through flu season without getting too sick.
Swine flu (swine influenza) is a respiratory disease caused by viruses (influenza viruses) that infect the respiratory tract of pigs and result in nasal secretion, a barking-like cough, decrease appetite, and listless behavior.
Swine flu produces most of the same symptoms in pigs as human flu produces in people.
The disease originally was nickname swine flu because the virus that causes the disease originally jumped to humans from the live pigs in which it evolved. The virus is a “reassortant” — a mix of genes from swine, bird, and human flu viruses.
Scientists are still in conflict about what the virus should be called, but most people know it as the H1N1 swine flu virus. Most commonly, swine flu is of the H1N1 influenza subtype.
However, they can from time to time come from the other types, such as H1N2, H3N1, and H3N2.
Swine Influenza also known as H1N1 flu, Swine flu, Pig and Hog flu is a respiratory disease caused by virus commonly found in pigs throughout the world. Most usually it is due to H1N1 influenza subtype but sometimes H1N2, H3N1, and H3N2 can also be responsible.
The major difference is that the current virus has strains of bird and pig viruses in it, and humans have very low or negligible immunity to it. That is what has made it more likely to become a pandemic virus (that can cause a global outbreak) as it could without problems spread from human to human.
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Swine Flu Symptoms
The first symptoms of swine flu are fever (greater than 100°F or 37.8°C), sore throat, body ache and fatigue. Some patients have also complained about running nose, diarrhea and vomiting.
Persons who have travelled abroad recently should be extra cautious and seek medical help right away if they have these symptoms.
According to the CDC, like seasonal flu, symptoms of swine flu infections can include:
1. fever, which is usually high, but unlike seasonal flu, is sometimes absent 2. cough 3. runny nose or stuffy nose 4. sore throat 5. body aches
Treatment for the Swine Flu
Treating the swine flu can be done in a couple of dissimilar ways: through antiviral drugs and through what is known as supportive care.
Antiviral Drugs—these are extremely important for high risk individuals who have acquired the H1N1 influenza or those who cannot rid their bodies of the illness and it appears to only be getting worse.
Home Remedies for Swine Flu
1. Wash Your Hands: It is believed that pig flu virus can get into the inside of your body through the mouth and nose. Regular washing of your hands, especially before a meal, with soap and luke warm water can prevent this. Alternately, you can also wear hand gloves before touching anything directly so as not to get infected.
2. Cover Your Nose and Mouth: If someone is sneezing or coughing near you, you may want to cover your nose and mouth with the inside of your palms or with your hanky. Alternately, you can wear face mask before going outside. These can prevent the virus to get entry into your system.
3. Drink Lemon Balm Tea: Experts believe that the anti-viral possessions of lemon balm can treat swine flu. You can drink lemon balm tea twice every day.
4. Chew Fresh Garlic Cloves: Garlic is careful an effective antiviral. Fresh garlic cloves (2-3) can be chewed once everyday.
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