Swine Flu: Many cases of swine flu increase during summer and monsoon season. Changes in humidity and temperature during this season increase the risk of spreading the virus. Swine flu cases have been increasing in some states of the country for the past few days. A few cases have been reported from Maharashtra to Delhi. Swine flu is a deadly infection caused by a virus. This can damage the respiratory system. Many people are at high risk of this infection. Let's find out, what is swine flu, what are its symptoms, who is more at risk and how to avoid it.
Swine flu is called the H1N1 virus. This is a type of infection caused by the influenza virus. This infection affects pigs. In pigs it infects the lungs. While in humans it affects the respiratory system ie throat, nose and lungs. This infection can easily spread from one person to another. The virus is airborne and enters the body through breathing. Apart from this, the infection is also spread through the cough and sneeze of an infected person.
The symptoms of swine flu are similar to the common flu, but it can also show some special symptoms. Its symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Apart from this, vomiting and diarrhea may also occur in some cases. In severe cases, shortness of breath and chest pain may also occur. Symptoms of swine flu can develop rapidly, so timely treatment and proper care is very important. Children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems need more attention as they are at a higher risk of infection.
Who is at greater risk?
Age – Children under 2 years of age and people over 65 years of age are at increased risk of swine flu.
Infected areas – People who live mostly in hospitals and nursing homes are at increased risk of this virus.
Certain diseases – people with asthma, diabetes, kidney, liver, blood and heart diseases are also at increased risk of this virus.
Pregnant – Pregnant women are at higher risk of contracting this virus. Its risk is particularly high in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy.
What are the symptoms?
How to protect
Wash your hands before and after eating.
Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth.
Stay away from crowded places.
Wear a surgical mask when going out.
Be sure to get vaccinated.
