Battling Novel H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu) (SWINE FLU, SWINE INFLUENZA, PIG FLU)

Swine Influenza has been of great concern world-wide in the recent months. The first human cases with acute respiratory syndrome, infected with a new strain of swine A (H1N1) have been reported from Mexico. A high proportion of cases with pneumonia required mechanical ventilation, and in fatal cases the progression of the disease was rapid. Health care workers (HCWs) and their family members with close contact are among those affected. This swine Influenza A virus is a novel reassortant with high pathogenicity at least in Mexico (US cases so far have been milder).

WHO advises no restriction of regular travel or closure of borders; it is considered prudent for people who are ill to delay international travel and for people developing symptoms following international travel to seek medical attention, in line with guidance from national authorities.

There is also no risk of infection from this virus from consumption of well-cooked pork and pork products. Individuals are advised to wash hands thoroughly with soap and water on a regular basis and should seek medical attention if they develop any symptoms of influenza-like illness, and have travel history or contact with the persons who have the fle like symptoms in affected areas (Mexico, USA, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Israel and Spain).

While the H1N1 scare is on, there are people trying to create panic and mislead the public through confusing information about the preventive measures and vaccines. In this time this is our duty as the health care professional to give right information to the public.

Other than the informing to public we must have unite to share our experience to treating the flu cases.