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Swine Flu Is Your Family Protected?

Swine influenza (also swine flu, hog flu, and pig flu refers to influenza caused by any strain of the influenza virus in (swine).

What is Influenza?
The influenza virus is a contagious respiratory illness. It can cause mild to severe sickness and in rare instances can lead to death. While most healthy people recover from the flu without complications, some people, such as older people, young children and people with certain health conditions, are at high risk for serious complications from the flu.



What is Swine Flu?
Swine flu is caused by the influenza virus and there have been frequent outbreaks of swine flu amongst pigs, where the disease has resulted in a high rate of infection. Recently, a new strain of the H1N1 (swine flu) virus has developed that is much more easily transmissible between humans. Confirmed first in Mexico, swine flu is spreading rapidly around the world, with the World Health Organisation warning options are limited to contain the spread of the virus.



There are many different variations of Swine Flu as the virus is constantly evolving. In the 20th century, there have been 3 recorded pandemics of influenza causing fatalities worldwide. These pandemics were the result of new strain of the virus developing. The current strain of swine flu reported in April 2009 is a new strain of the virus never previously seen before, causing a great level of concern for individuals nearby infected areas.



Be Aware of Flu Symptoms
The flu usually starts suddenly and may include the following symptoms:



1---Headache
2---Tiredness (can be extreme)
3---Cough
4---Sore throat
5---Runny or stuffy nose
6---Body aches
7---Diarrhoea and vomiting also can occur but are more common in children.



These symptoms are referred to as "flu-like symptoms." A lot of different illnesses, including the common cold, can have similar symptoms.



Know the Risk from the Flu
Some of the complications caused by the flu include bacterial pneumonia, dehydration, and worsening of chronic medical conditions, such as congestive heart failure, asthma, or diabetes. Children and adults may develop sinus problems and ear infections.



Antiviral Medications
Antiviral drugs like Tamiflu are approved for treatment of the flu.

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