What is Swine flu?
H1N1 influenza or swine flu is a respiratory illness that is caused by a virus. It is contagious and spreads quickly from person to person.
It was declared pandemic by the World Health Organisation in 2009.
It can lasts for weeks when a large part of the population in the country is affected by this.
Symptoms of Swine Flu:
People affected by swine flu viruses have the common symptoms like fever, tiredness, lack of appetite, coughing and a sore throat.
People can also have vomiting and diarrhoae. The symptoms of influenza have been mild and have made a full recovery. However, people with severe illness have died.
How to protect yourself against Swine Flu?
- Good hygiene can help reduce the spread of the virus
- Frequently wash your hands with soap and water
- While coughing or sneezing, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue
- Dispose of use tissues promptly and carefully. Put them in a bag and then throw them in the bin
- Clean hard surfaces frequently