Pig Flu Symptoms Explored

It is important to understand that pig flu symptoms are quite similar to most other influenza infections however, the virus is much more severe and dangerous. If you suspect that you have the pig flu, otherwise known as the swine flu or H1N1, it is important that you avoid making contact with other people. In fact, the only time that you should even think about leaving home is to seek medical attention.

Symptoms

Pig flu symptoms are often so similar to other flu infections that they go unrecognized until they further progress and become more serious. Most infected individuals report a high-grade fever over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, nasal secretions, cough, headache and fatigue. Other symptoms also seen in some individuals are vomiting, diarrhea and nausea.

Interestingly, the majority of patients in Mexico have been young adults suggesting that collateral tissue damage can be the result of the response from a strong immune system. Many patients develop respiratory infections that become quite severe and require a ventilator to assist with breathing.

It is not uncommon for individuals with the pig flu to end up with pneumonia if the viral infection is left untreated and some sufferers will develop seizures. When this type of secondary bacterial infection is present, death will often occur due to the lungs becoming infected. Antibiotics are necessary for this level of infection.

Treatment

Currently, the best way to avoid being plagued with pig flu symptoms is with vaccination. Due to the spread of the infection to various countries around the world, effective vaccines have been produced by several laboratories. In October 2009, the first vaccine was released being a spray variety. It was approved to be used in healthy individuals between the ages of 2 and 49. The vaccine contains an attenuated H1N1 virus and must never be taken by someone with a compromised immune system or anyone who is pregnant or nursing.

The vaccine injection became available shortly after and can be used for individuals as young as 6 months old up through elderly ages and this includes pregnant women.

The effects of the pig flu can be reduced by Tamiflu and Relenza, both of which are also used to reduce symptoms or prevent influenza A and B. These should only be used very scarcely because viral resistance can and has occurred. Additionally, Relenza and Tamiflu are not recommended when symptoms have been present 48 hours or more however, hospitalized patients may still receive these treatment options under a physician’s care. Patients with severe infections will often require ventilation support.

Prevention

While vaccination is always recommended, there are other ways to help reduce the spread of the pig flu in area where vaccines aren’t readily available. Self-quarantine is key! If you feel your symptoms are associated with this infection, you should avoid all contact with others (with the exception of a physician) for at least 10 days. If you live in a home with other people, wearing a surgical mask will help with the spread of airborne droplets. Below are other helpful methods:

Inactivate or kill the virus before it has the opportunity to reach cells by washing your hands, showering and washing/changing clothes.

If soap and water are not available wherever you happen to be, make use of an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Sanitize all objects that are touched such as phones, computer keyboards, handrails, doorknobs, etc.

Never touch your eyes, nose or mouth unless you are freshly clean.

Avoid crowds and stay at least six feet away from individuals who seem to have flu symptoms. Do not eat from containers or canisters at parties, etc., where other people have put their hands.

If you think you may have pig flu symptoms you should contact your doctor right away. Early detection and treatment is always effective to help avoid more severe complications.