Difference between regular flu and swine flu
Posted by admin on September 23rd, 2009
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.
Tags: regular flu, swine flu, swine flu news, swine flu prevention, Swine Flu Virus