Take precautions against the H1N1 (Swine Flu) Virus.

Today in every one mind’s only one question would be going one i.e. is there a test for H1N1?

The answer is Yes. A simple nasal swab is all that is needed; it will be sent to a laboratory to test for the virus.

Well, H1N1 is highly contagious. The viruses are spread person-to-person primarily when infected persons cough and/or sneeze. Persons may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose. You cannot get H1N1 by eating pork.

Yes. Antiviral drugs can make you feel better faster. Antiviral drugs work best if started within two days of onset of symptoms. Presently, the CDC is working on the development of a vaccine. AU Health Services are monitoring the CDC's progress.

According to them, when the vaccine is first available, the following groups will be the priority:

•pregnant women

•people who live with or care for children younger than 6 months of age

•health care and emergency services personnel
•persons between the ages of 6 months through 24 years of age, and

•people from ages 25 through 64 years who are at higher risk for H1N1 Swine Flu because of chronic health disorders or compromised immune systems.


The H1N1 Swine Flu virus is rare in healthy persons over the age of 65. For this reason, people 65 and over are not in the high risk priority group for initial receipt of the vaccination. An adequate supply of vaccine supplies is expected, so that it will be offered to the general population as additional supplies are received.

Following recommendations should be taken to all the residents in India & abroad:

•Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.

•Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.

•Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

•Stay home if you get sick. CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
If you become ill and are pregnant, are very young, or have a chronic health problem you should contact your health care provider. If you develop any of the following symptoms, you should seek immediate medical care:


•A high fever

•Children and Adults: Greater than 105°F (40.5°C)

•Babies 3- to 24-months-old: 103°F (39.4°C) or higher.

•Babies up to 3 months: Rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher.

•Coughing that produces thick mucus

•Dehydration (feeling of dry mouth or excessive thirst)

•Worsening of an existing serious medical condition (for example: heart or lung disease, diabetes, HIV, cancer)

•New onset of confusion

•Difficult breathing or chest pain

•Bluish skin

•Stiff neck

•Inability to move an arm or leg

•New onset of seizures


Note: Precaution is better than Cure