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Preventing H1N1 Swine Flu Infection

Practical Advice for Minimizing the Risk of Novel Influenza A

Oct 20, 2009 R.H. Sheldon

According to the World Health Organization, six easy and inexpensive steps can be taken to minimize the chances of contracting the H1N1 virus.

Known officially as novel influenza A, or H1N1, the swine flu was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) in June 2009. At the time, more than 70 countries had reported swine flu outbreaks, and since the declaration, the virus has spread to twice that many countries.

Currently, the WHO considers the overall severity of influenza A to be moderate. Most people recover from the flu without medical care or hospitalization. In general, the national levels of severe cases of influenza A seem comparable to periods of local seasonal influenza, although some areas have seen high levels of the disease.

Even so, the WHO is concerned about the serious cases and deaths that are being reported among young people, including those who are healthy, those with pre-existing conditions, and those who are pregnant. For this reason, even healthy individuals should be taking precautions against H1N1 infection.

WHO Recommendations for Preventing Swine Flu

According to the WHO, swine flu spreads in the same way as other influenza viruses - via droplets that are expelled when someone with H1N1 speaks, coughs, or sneezes. However, the virus may also spread when people touch infected objects and then touch their noses and mouths. As a result, the WHO recommends that individuals take the following steps to help prevent contracting influenza A:

Avoid touching their noses and mouths.
Wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water on a regular basis (or cleanse their hands with an alcohol-based hand rub). This practice is especially important if individuals are touching their noses and mouths, or surfaces that might be contaminated.
Avoid close contact with people who show flu-like symptoms. Individuals should try to maintain a distance of about one meter from infected people, when possible. If they're caring for people who are sick, they can wear masks when in close contact with the infected persons, and they should immediately cleanse their hands after contact.
Minimize spending time in crowded settings, if possible.
Ensure plenty of airflow in their living spaces by opening windows.
Practice good health habits by eating nutritious foods, getting adequate sleep, and staying physically active.

People who do contract the H1N1 virus should take adequate steps to prevent spreading the disease, such as not going into work, school, or crowds. It is important to note, however, that the influenza A symptoms are similar to those of seasonal viruses - symptoms such as fever, coughing, body aches, headaches, sore throats, and runny noses. The H1N1 virus cannot be distinguished from other viruses without the help of medical practitioners and local health authorities.

The WHO web site provides specific details about the influenza A virus and what individuals should do if they become infected. The site also provides information about the status of the current pandemic. Anybody who wants more information about the swine flu and its impacts around the globe should visit the WHO site. In the meantime, those concerned about being infected with the H1N1 virus should follow the WHO guidelines described above.

The copyright of the article Preventing H1N1 Swine Flu Infection in General Medicine is owned by R.H. Sheldon. Permission to republish Preventing H1N1 Swine Flu Infection in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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