The 2009 outbreak of swine flu that infected humans was of the H1N1 subtype. It is important to note that, although it developed in swine, the 2009 pandemic virus was not completely derived from swine. The virus contains a combination of flu genes from bird, swine, and human flu types.
Here are some key points about swine flu.
The symptoms of swine flu in humans are quite similar to those of regular flu, and include:
There are only a few causes of swine flu in humans. They are:
This is the most common way of catching swine flu. Any contact with infected pigs makes transmission more likely.
This is a much less common way of catching swine flu, but is a risk, especially for those in close contact with an infected person.
In cases where humans have infected other humans, close contact was necessary with the infected person, and it nearly always occurred in closed groups of people.
Some people are more at risk of catching swine flu than others; including:
Swine flu is mostly diagnosed through noting the symptoms.
There is also a quick test called the rapid influenza diagnostic test that can help identify swine flu. However, these vary in effectiveness and may show a negative result even though influenza is present. More accurate tests are available in more specialized laboratories.
However, in a similar way to seasonal flu, symptoms are often mild and self-resolve. Most people do not receive a test for swine flu as treatment would be the same, regardless of the outcome.
If symptoms are mild, it is extremely unlikely that any connection to swine influenza is found, even if the virus is there.
As there is no known single cure, steps can be taken at home to prevent swine flu and reduce symptoms if a person does contract the virus.
These include:
Do not get close to people who are sick. Be sure to stay away from crowds if there is a swine flu outbreak in your area.
How to reduce the spread of infection?
If a person is infected, it is important they follow these rules to prevent any further spread: