Health Articles

Swine influenza also known as the pig or hog flu is a disease of the pigs spread through any one of the several strains of the influenza virus. The virus known as SIV or Swine Influenza Virus has many sub-types of its strain. These are known as H1N1, H1N2, H3N2, H2N3 and H3N1.

The virus gets transmitted from pigs to human beings and gets assimilated in the human blood to create antibodies. Swine flu is common among the pigs that are human-bred world over but it does not always cause influenza or sickness in humans. Many from the pig population die through the virulent swine flu and even vaccinations are injected to protect the home-bred pigs that are bred in huge quantities.

The symptoms of Swine flu are similar to the normal influenza in human beings, therefore detection in some cases take some time. Though his strain of the swine flu virus is not as dangerous as a few others, it is deadly enough to kill a person if not detected early. Some of the symptoms of Swine flu in human beings include chills, coughs, body aches, diarrhoea, headache, sore throat, temperature, vomiting and tiredness.

To protect yourself from the H1N1 virus you should maintain some personal protection and precaution like you should try to maintain health and fitness and get enough of sleep, try to manage stress and do exercise, eat a well balanced diet with plenty of fibre and liquids. You should most importantly be careful in public and not get in touch with sick people and should wash your hands regularly with antiseptic soap or alcoholic hand sanitizers.
Swine Flu Immunity
Besides, there are other precautions to be kept in mind if you or your friend gets infected like you should cover your mouth while sneezing, clean all surfaces since sometimes small droplets containing the influenza virus can remain behind and also to maintain minimal social contact. The virus also can be stubbed by vaccinating the pigs in the pig farms properly.The farmers who look after them and remain in regular direct or indirect contact with the pigs are more susceptible to acquire the virus and should therefore maintain certain measures like smoking the area and wearing gloves since they are the ones who come in contact with the infected pigs on a daily basis and may lead to human to human transmission of the virus.

The H1N1 virus had spread to many countries and had taken many lives in the past from 1976 to 2009 and will continue to do so in future since the virus can mutate and remain dormant for several years to again emerge in the form of a different strain. Pigs can be infected by both human and avian influenza strains which in turn create new strains. The best way is to ensure your own protection by being aware of the influenza virus and its workings. You can gain information from online health care information. A health guide can also bail you out, if you are confused about the Swine flu and its virus.

Herbal relief for colds and flu are numerous and very effective.

When you feel as if a cold is starting you should immediately take a dose of five drops of Echinacea as per dosage instructions on the bottle and you should increase your vitamin C intake.
Cold virus
Our bodies cannot hold or manufacture Vitamin C so increasing your daily intake can immediately help to improve your immune system. Your body will flush out any excess it does not need. If you find your bowels are loose reduce the amount you are taking. Ideally take 1-2 grams of Vitamin C twice a day with meals.

For a soothing effect you should make a steam bath containing Tea Tree oil, Eucalyptus and Peppermint oil and inhale the steam. This will help ward off the cold and prevent congestion.

Drink lots of fluids but try to avoid milk as this can suppress your immune system.

If breathing problems persist consult your medical practitioner.

Herbs can work more effectively to combat flu than even the latest flu vaccines.

New Olive Leaf Extract is a strong antibacterial/antiviral capable of countering bacteria and viruses that even modern medicines cannot tackle. Recently the processing methods for this extract have changed and the potency of the resulting product is vastly improved.

Olive Leaf extract fights amongst other things retroviruses and is very effective in fighting the rhinovirus – the most common cause of the common cold.

Another weapon in the herbal relief arsenal against colds and flu is the elderberry.

Elderberries make a fantastic drink and this drink can help you recover from a cold more quickly and help to build your strength before another illness of infection catches you in a weakened state.

Elderberries will hasten your recovery from a cold or flu in a very interesting way. When flu cells attack the body they break into your healthy cells by attaching to the surface using spikes on their own surface. Elderberry works by making these spikes ineffective in a way that is not yet understood but by doing this the flu virus is defeated before it can cause any damage.

An effective fight against the flu virus is to add half to one teaspoon of Elderberry Tincture to a little water and take every four hours as soon as you feel the first symptoms. Continue this for three days.

There are countless ways herbal relief for the symptoms of a cold of flu can be gained. The results are quick and effective and herbal remedies can also be taken alongside traditional medicines but should never be regarded as a total replacement or in place of a visit to your medical practitioner.

Are you, like so many, wondering what’s the difference between regular flu and swine flu? This article will give you some simple answers. What is the Difference between Regular Flu Virus and the H1N1 Swine Flu Virus?

Regular flu is also referred to as seasonal flu. Generally it refers to influenza type A, B, or C, which is endemic to humans.

Unlike regular flu, swine flu actually originated inside the intestines of a pig and were somehow transmitted to a human, who spread it to other humans. Animal strains of flu originate in birds (H5N1 – bird flu) or pigs (H1N1 – swine flu). We believe the current swine flu strain originated on a pig farm in Mexico, near Vera Cruz.

Why is swine flu more dangerous than regular flu?

Because no one in the world had been exposed to this new strain of H1N1 (Swine flu) flu before the first cases appeared in Mexico in April 2009. Therefore, most of the population has no protection against this new virus. That’s why it is so important to get vaccinated when the vaccine becomes available.

Won’t your regular yearly flu shot protect you against swine flu?

It appears that it will not.

Can you explain the difference between regular and swine flu vaccines?

The regular flu vaccine is usually made up of a combination of the three most common human flu viruses. On the other hand, the new swine flu vaccine is made up of the H1N1 virus exclusively.

Remember, vaccines are designed to build up your immunity.

What is the difference in symptoms between regular flu and swine flu?

The initial symptoms appear to be the same: Coughing, sneezing, fever, aches and pains and general fatigue. Some people also develop vomiting and diarrhea.
However, with H1N1 (Swine Flu), within five days it is possible to have the onset of severe respiratory symptoms that progress to pneumonia or other life-threatening complications.

Are the folks with the highest risk factors identical for both types of flu?

No. The groups with the highest risk factors differ between the two types of flu.

Seasonal Flu is particularly dangerous for anyone with a weakened immune system, which generally includes the elderly. Younger people who are healthy normally are not bothered seriously by the side effects of seasonal flu.
Swine Flu Immunity
This is not the case with swine flu.

The CDC reports state that the H1N1 flu is more dangerous to people younger than 25 years of age.
People over 65 actually have less of a chance to contract it. It is believed they may have some immunity from exposure to similar (though not identical) strains in the 1950s and 60s.

How I know for sure if a family member has swine flu?

They will need to see a doctor or health care professional. A simple swab test will be performed and submitted for lab analysis. It should take just a day or two to know the results.

What’s the difference in the treatment between regular flu and H1N1 flu?

First off, always follow the advice of your doctor. Seek his or her advice to insure you are getting the best, most up to date treatment. It now appears that treatment for most people will be the same. This includes avoiding dehydration by taking in plenty of fluids, use of over-the-counter medications to help relieve coughing and congestion, and getting plenty of rest.

Your doctor may also suggest you take antiviral drugs. It appears the drugs Relenza and Tamiflu are somewhat effective against the swine flu virus, especially if taken within 48 hours from the development of your first symptoms. These antiviral drugs may reduce the severity of the flu which should help prevent serious complications.
If you have a sick child you need to watch him/her very closely. Keep the hydrated. If they seem overly lethargic, or have developed any breathing difficulty, call your pediatrician immediately.

Why is H1N1 pig flu more dangerous than seasonal flu?

It is possible that the swine flu could cause serious respiratory problems which could result in life threatening complications. These will generally develop around the fifth or sixth day, when regular flu symptoms should be disappearing.

Governments around the world have been put on alert by the World Health Organization to prepare for a global pandemic. In April, 2009, the WHO raised the warning level from level 4 to level 5.
Using history as our teacher, pandemic influenza in years past has almost disappeared in summer months, only to reappear with greater strength and deadliness in the fall and winter months. That is why every family should institute an action plan.
Governments are now preparing for disruptions to transportation and commerce. Families need to prepare for the same things.
Remedies that can help you prevent swine flu
The difference between regular flu and swine flu may mean serious consequences for the entire world. Learn what these consequences may include, and how you can get your family ready to face them now.

According to the latest news, everyone should go get a flu vaccine now and not wait on the swine flu vaccine to be released next month. Latest reports are warning that people who are waiting until next month to get the swine flu vaccine due to long lines and possible shortage.

The fear is people will wait until next month to get the swine flu and end up getting the regular flu. They are also urging all ages to get the vaccine young and old. One reporter stated ” If you want to keep granny safe, you need to get granny a flu shot.”

This is definitely scary times with the swine flu being contributed to deaths daily. As the father of two children, I am especially concerned and want to do everything I can to keep them safe. I have taken them both to get the flu vaccine (regular) and will be waiting in line next month to get the swine flu vaccine for both them and myself.
Common cold virus
I would urge everyone to listen to the media and get the regular flu vaccine, even if we only have to wait one month for the swine flu vaccine. Waiting the few extra days could be the difference in you getting the flu making yourself more vulnerable to the swine flu.

Myth: Swine flu is a disease that will kill anyone who gets it. That’s what pandemic means.

Truth: Swine flu is actually just a particularly nasty strain of flu. But it’s a flu just the same. Swine flu has the same symptoms as a regular flu, and is treated and spread like a regular flu. This means that you can take medicines that help with normal flu and they will help with swine flu. However, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has advised to avoid aspirin, as it can cause a serious illness when combined with swine flu.
Swine flu information cdc
Further, this new strain of the flu doesn’t kill everyone who gets it. There have been 11,054 confirmed cases in the United States. Out of all of those cases, there have been 17 deaths. The word pandemic actually only describes the number of cases and how wide a disease spreads in a short time. Even if there were no deaths whatsoever, the current flu could almost be a pandemic simply because it has spread quickly and to many different countries.

Myth: There is nothing to do to avoid swine flu besides locking yourself indoors.

Truth: The CDC has advised people to stay indoors…only if you are sick. We don’t need to spread the disease any more than it already has. However, this doesn’t mean healthy people can’t be out and about. We just need to take precautions. Hand-washing is important in stopping the spread of germs, as well as using a hand sanitizer. Also, stay away from people who are coughing and sneezing. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth, as germs have more chance of infecting you in those areas.
Swine Flu Symptoms
Myth: If I travel anywhere, I’ll get the swine flu.

Truth: Travel is not the problem. It’s how serious you are about prevention. You need to make sure you clean your hands regularly. If there are no sinks around, bring along a small bottle of hand sanitizer and use it often. Stay away from people who are coughing and sneezing. If you can’t avoid them, take plenty of vitamins in your diet. Take a multi-vitamin or an immune-boosting product. Get plenty of rest, avoid stress, and eat healthy. Does that sound like too much to do? Start now!

Swine Flu News

Swine Flu Eyed in Death of New York Baby
New York City’s medical examiner is reportedly investigating whether swine flu caused the death of a Bronx baby.
The family of 11-week-old Steven Montanez tells the Daily News that the baby had the flu when his aunt found him unconscious on Thursday.
Swine Flu Cases in Australia May Prompt Pandemic Call
Swine flu cases in Australia, doubling about every two days, may convince the World Health Organization to declare the first influenza pandemic in 41 years, said Raina MacIntyre, head of public health at the University of New South Wales.
Australia has 401 confirmed cases of the new H1N1 influenza strain…
US swine flu cases hit all 50 states
“H1N1 flu virus have now been found in all 50 U.S. states and tests have confirmed the virus in more than 10,000 people across the nation, U.S. officials said on Monday.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has said the confirmed tests represent about one in 20 of the actual number of infections, which would bring the total number of U.S. cases to around 200,000.”
Further swine flu case confirmed
“A further case of influenza A (H1N1) has been confirmed in Scotland by Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon.
There are now 17 confirmed cases in Scotland of the virus, also known as swine flu, and eight probable cases.”

There’s been a lot of talk about the swine flu these last two weeks. The immediate danger to most parts of the country is very small. Even so, all these news reports have got people thinking about what they can do to protect themselves. I’ve already had several patients ask me what they can do to keep from getting sick.

A strong immune system plays an important role. I recommend three things to all my patients to help the immune system stay strong and healthy. Take Vitamin C, get enough sleep, and wash your hands regularly.

I’ve recently added a fourth suggestion to that list. If you really want to give your immune system the support it needs, then I recommend astragalus.

Chinese Herb Gives You Dramatic Results

In Chinese medicine, astragalus has been used for thousands of years in many, many different ways.

Ancient Chinese healers used astragalus to reduce the affects of stress on the body. Whether a patient suffered from physical, emotional, mental, or environmental stress, healers used astragalus to help the person cope better and to prevent detrimental effects that stress might have on health.

Astragalus was used to make the body better able to fight off diseases. People took the herb to protect against colds and infections as well as more serious conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and cancer.

Healers also prescribed astragalus to help increase the vitality of their patients. Even healthy patients could benefit from the improvement in stamina and energy that astragalus delivered. The history of astragalus is very interesting, but it’s the recent research on this herbal supplement that has me excited about recommending it to my patients.

Modern-Day Research Backs Up the Benefits of Astragalus

In the realm of modern medicine, the powerful health benefits of astragalus are just coming to light. It turns out there are good reasons why Chinese healers used astragalus for so many purposes. The herb is powerful and versatile when it comes to supporting your overall health. One of things I like best about it is that it works as both a preventative and as a treatment for many illnesses.

Astragalus has a number of valuable properties. It contains complex sugar molecules called polysaccharides that help strengthen the immune system. It has antibacterial properties that help to fight off infections and a number of diseases. It also works as an antioxidant and helps to protect your cells from damage. It has anti-mutagenic properties that make it a powerful ally in preventing cancer. And it helps reduce chronic, low-level inflammation that contributes to so many age-related diseases.

I just read a recent study in which scientists discovered that astragalus actually works to keep your cells younger. It stimulates the activity of telomerase, an enzyme that helps protect the DNA within your cells and that may slow aging at a cellular level. Younger cells mean less disease-especially cancer and a slower overall aging process.

In animal studies, researchers have also verified the effects of astragalus on stamina and vitality. In mice induced with chronic fatigue syndrome, astragalus helped to restore balance to the production of inflammatory cytokines and it increased the mice’s endurance.

For strengthening the immune system, astragalus works in a number of ways. It helps remove pathogens, it stimulates T-cell activity, and it activates a number of antiviral systems within your body. Through these means, astragalus supplements can protect you from everyday illnesses like the cold and flu. Other research shows that it can be an effective treatment for these illnesses, as well, helping you to recover faster.
Scholarly articles for T-cell activity
The immune-boosting properties of astragalus are so powerful that it actually interferes with immune suppressing drugs. These drugs are most commonly given to transplant patients to reduce rejection. If you’re on an immune suppressant for any reason, you shouldn’t take astragalus. Otherwise, this powerful supplement can benefit you greatly.

The recommended dosage for astragalus is one to 25 grams a day. You can find astragalus at health food stores. It’s commonly available as a standardized extract or in powdered capsules. For the best results, I prefer the extract. Your body will be better able to absorb it.

Whether you’re worried about the swine flu or looking for a good way to promote your overall health and slow down the aging processes in your body, astragalus is a good option. Give it a try… I’m certain you’ll be pleased with the results.

Mark Rosenberg, M.D.

Swine flu virus

The World Health Organization has declared it a pandemic and last heard Swine flu has hit India and Turkey. Caused by Influenza virus A subtype H1N1, it spreads when the virus gets airborne – through coughs and sneezes – and also by contact with infected persons and contaminated surfaces.
News results for virus A:
Many City Schools Still Closed by Flu
“Schools have proven to be a major incubator of the swine flu virus, which first surfaced last month at St. Francis Preparatory School in Fresh Meadows, Queens, with 69 confirmed cases. After a brief respite the virus re-emerged and across the city, 18 public schools have been ordered closed in the last week, almost all in Queens…“
Swine Flu Spreads in Japan, Despite Quarantine Inspections
“TOKYO, May 19 – To stop swine flu before it could sneak off airplanes arriving from North America, Japan dispatched masked health inspectors with fever-sensing guns to walk among passengers…”

The symptoms of swine flu coincide with that of a normal flu: fever, coughs, lack of appetite, lethargy, and in some cases, runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. The H1N1 virus primarily causes infection in swine (hence the name) and spreads to humans coming in close contact with infected pigs – in pig barns, livestock exhibitions etc. It is just a myth that the disease is contracted through pork meat, as proper cooking (at 160°F or more) kills viruses.

The bad news, however, is that there is no known cure or vaccine against swine flu. All we can do is avoid catching the virus, and if infected, assist our body’s immune system to deploy its weaponry and win the battle for us. A few precautions, especially if you are living in an area where incidence of Swine flu has been reported, could protect you from contracting the H1N1 virus:

1) Avoid contact with the infected
You have already noticed how fast common cold can spread. Same applies here. So avoid being in close proximity with infected persons.

2) Be wary of surfaces
When you bring your hand to your eye, nose or mouth, after touching a contaminated surface you are unwittingly allowing the virus entry into your body. Shaking hands, touching public surfaces as when traveling in community transport vehicles etc, can lead to catching the virus. Clean your hands often with warm water and soap.

3) Eat healthy
The immune system is our greatest ally in fighting off the virus. So keep your body fit with a diet rich in immunity boosters like whole grains, colorful vegetables and vitamin-rich fruits. Avoid food loaded with sugar and fat. They slow down the body’s metabolism and compromise its immune system. You can even take advantage of the antibiotic and antioxidant qualities of ginger and garlic by including them in your diet.

4) Sleep well
Good rest will keep your body primed for the fight against viruses.

5) Drink enough water
Drinking 8 – 10 glasses of water a day will keep the body sufficiently hydrated.

6) Avoid alcohol
Now is not the time for that impulsive binge. Alcoholic beverages are known to suppress immune system.

7) Stay active physically
Increased blood circulation and oxygenation while exercising, backs the immune system. It also aids in flushing out toxins and is a proven stress-buster.

Stay stress-free
The contagion may present a formidable picture to you. But don’t fret too much over it. It will only weaken your body and place it more at risk of a virus attack.

However, in spite of painstaking precautions if you still contract the virus, there is some good news. Scientists are of the consensus that the H1N1 infection is a rather mild one, one that can be managed with proper care. Here is what you can do if you develop severe flu-like symptoms.

a) Don’t Panic
Every flu is not a swine flu. But if the indications seem rather severe than usual, don’t hesitate to consult a doctor. Ask him to get yourself tested for swine flu virus.

b) Take the right medication
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, USA recommends the use of oseltamivir or zanamivir for the treatment and prevention of infection with swine influenza viruses. Let your doctor prescribe the one that is appropriate for you.

c) Nurture your health
Good sleep, drinking lots of fluids, a healthy diet and physical activity will keep your body robust in spite of the onslaught of the virus.

d) Don’t spread the virus
You can stop yourself from transmitting the virus to others: when you are sick, stay at home. Cover your mouth when sneezing, coughing etc.

Counter measures have been launched worldwide against the threat of swine flu. Hopefully, with the right measures, it would soon be under control. Meanwhile, let us protect ourselves and others from its incursions.
Zsofia Christopher

Swine Flu Pandemic?

Unless you are living in “a galaxy far, far away”, you would have heard about the new “pandemic”, Swine Flu. The press has been full of panic-inducing stories of Swine Flu. Deja vu? We had the SARS “pandemic” and the Bird Flu “Pandemic”. Or was it a pandemic?

Don’t get me wrong. I believe that there should be early warnings of potential health treats, be it local or global, so contamination can be minimized, but don’t be drawn into the press-induced panic attacks. The fact of the matter is that all flu can kill. In the US approximately 200,000 people are hospitalised and 36,000 die every year – that is from the usual winter flu, not swine flu. Does it play on your mind or cause you to lose sleep that you might catch the flu every winter? To put this further in perspective, 3000 people die of Malaria every DAY, but it is considered a “health problem” not a pandemic.

Many people who die from flu, die of the following bacterial infections. The majority of deaths from the 1918 Flu was from secondary bacterial infections which could be easily treated today.

The 1976 swine flu “pandemic”, never eventuated but thousands of people were paralysed and 25 deaths were caused by the vaccination.

Flu is a serious disease, whether it be swine flu, bird flu or your common or garden variety that comes around every year. It’s unlikely that you can protect yourself by wearing a mask, but it could stop you sneezing on others if you have it. Flu can last on door knobs and other surfaces for up to 3 days. It can be passed by a kiss on the cheek. If you have any flu, don’t spread it around. Don’t take it out shopping or to work with you where you can infect other people.

Symptoms of Swine Flu include:

High fever
Runny nose and/or sore throat
Cough
Headache
Joint aches and pains
Loss of appetite
Fatigue
Vomiting and/or diarrhea

In other words, the same symptoms of other types of flu.

What can you do to protect yourself?

- Purified Liquid Zeolite stops viruses from replicating by capturing viral particles (this has been dramatically demonstrated in informal trials with Hepatitis C)

- Agari mushroom drops – it is said to increase your natural killer cells by 3000% within 72 hours

- Increase your Vitamin D levels. The best way is sunshine. Another way is Cod Liver Oil. If you take this route, make sure you take it with zeolite to remove any mercury. Another method is via supplement. (remember supplements of D can cause overdose if not taken at the correct dosage).

- Regularly wash your hands with warm, soapy water. This will decrease the chance of spreading the virus to your nose, mouth or other people.

- For all influenzas, increase your immune function. Purified liquid zeolite is an immune modulator. agari mushroom is a powerful immune enhancer. Echinacea, Vitamin C and plenty of water are all recommended. Swine flu has been seen in younger people, not just the young and old, the usual population at risk, therefore an actual viral inhibitor or viral killing agents may be helpful. These are things like purified liquid zeolite, olive leaf extract and grapefruit seed oil.

- Eat and juice fresh fruit and vegetables. Include garlic with this. Garlic is a powerful anti bacterial and anti viral.

- Get enough sleep. It has been shown that dropping from 8 to 7 hours of sleep a night for a week or more can lower the immune system.

- Don’t underestimate keeping well hydrated whether you have the flu or not. That is with water, not fizzy soda pops which have been shown to drop the immune system for 6 hours after drinking them.

The symptoms of Swine Flu are the same as the annual flu. (Interestingly, colds and flu outbreaks tend to happen around the world in times of least sunlight and therefore, least Vitamin D).

So far, the Swine Flu mortality rates are in line with normal influenza, not like bird flu. Bird flu had a 90% death rate, whereas this Swine flu is around 6% (as is normal flu).

At this point, all deaths from the Swine Flu have occurred in Mexico. This flu hasn’t been as severe in cases outside of that area. One possible factor in this situation, is the high pollution already causing respiratory stress in that population.

The best treatment for flu, is don’t get it! Keep yourself healthy. If you should succumb to any flu always keep an eye out for secondary bacterial infections and seek appropriate help. Swine flu is a notifiable disease. Please follow the correct procedures.
By Deborah Howlett

Protect Yourself From Swine flu virus

Swine Flu has certainly hit the news. You may well have a lot of questions and queries about “Swine Flu”. Should you and your family be concerned about the current pandemic of this dreaded illness – or at least as its incidence and mortality is portrayed daily in the media.

First of all “What is Swine Flu?” Human swine influenza a.k.a “Human Swine Flu” is a form of influenza or the “flu” which usually affects pigs themselves but can sometimes make people ill as well. Some severe cases of this “new” form of influenza have recently come to light and reported in the country of Mexico.

News results for swine flu virus:
Swine flu fears evident as world’s cases top 6000
“”MEXICO CITY (AP) — In China, mask-wearing police cordoned off more hotels Wednesday, quarantining anyone who came in contact with swine flu patients, no matter how mild their symptoms. Not so in Mexico, where the health secretary encouraged tourists to come relax in their favorite vacation spots despite a growing swine flu caseload.”"

Costa Rica blames singers for swine flu spread
“”Costa Rican health officials are questioning how four people who came in contact with a Lexington singing group in April may now have the H1N1 virus, or swine flu.
It is still not clear whether some Canta Mundi chorus members contracted the illness while there, or if they brought it with them, because the three people who had a mild form of H1N1 showed symptoms after their return to Lexington.”"

Next in line is the query as to what precautions both you , your family , friends, co-workers of fellow students can take as to prevent yourselves from becoming ill or coming down with this malady ?

The general precautions that can be taken are first of all that if you do cough – use a tissue, cover your mouth and nose. Take care to wash your hands often with soap and water especially if you cough or sneeze. It has been found in the medical and pharmaceutical professions that alcohol based cleaners are particularly effective in these cases in preventing the occurrence of as well as spread of the disease.

In addition in the prevention and basic treatment of most diseases and their progress and well as eventual recovery from your grandmother could have well told you to eat well, make healthy food choices, be physically active and fit and get adequate rest and regular sound sleep? Keep regular and proper hours.

If you do think that you have, have acquired or in the process of coming down with this current almost trendy influenza disorder what should you do? As with any flu like illness, if you do develop symptoms of a respiratory infection it is best to take the following steps and precautions. First of all don’t spread the influenza viruses unnecessarily or infect others with the affliction. It is always better to make the choice or choices to stay at home, away from school of work than take the chance of spreading the infection unnecessarily to others. This way you will reduce the chances of spread of the ailment in your community overall.

In addition you can reduce the spread of germs by avoiding touching your eyes, nose or mouth and by washing your hands frequently and regularly.

You may well be concerned about protecting your children. Overall children should take the same general and specific precautions as adults, when it comes to washing their hands regularly and covering their noses and mouths when coughing. Young children may need help with hand washing. There is nothing wrong with that. Children with flu like symptoms should stay home from school, just as a precaution as with adults who fear that they have contracted the malady, whether it is to take a break from school or day care depending on their enrollment and age. To avoid the spread of germs, routinely clean surfaces in areas where children do play.

Lastly you may be concerned all in all that since the disease is called “Swine Flu” , are the pig livestock stock themselves infected and is it safe overall to eat pork. Be reassured that if you cook the pork meat thoroughly then all is safe. There have been no reports at all, and in any manner, of people becoming ill through contaminated food. Viruses (including flu viruses and specifically the swine flu virus in this case), are easily killed by heat. Just ensure that any pork meats that you or your family ingests are thoroughly cooked, with clear juices and no visible juices. The rule of thumb is that pork should be cooked to an internal temperature of 71 degrees Celsius which works out to 160 degrees Fahrenheit.

Protect yourself, your friends and family from this year’s pandemic – “Swine Flu”.
Syd E. Nohcud