Swine Flu Basics

An recent outbreak of a disease called swine flu has made its way to the United States. Learn about it and what you can do to protect against it.

The Swine Flu (swine influenza), is an illness effecting the respiratory system of pigs. This virus is caused by Type A flu viruses which causes regular outbreaks in pigs. Historically, people did not contract swine flu, but human infections have recently been reported. The swine flu virus is reported to spread from person-to-person, similar to the way the human flu virus is transmitted.

Reportings in March and early April 2009, state human infections of swine influenza A (H1N1) viruses were initially located in southern areas of California and near San Antonio, Texas. Other states in the US and Mexico have stated cases of swine flu infection in humans. Additional cases internationally were reported as well. The Center for Disease Control provides an updated case count of confirmed swine flu infections in the United States. Most state and local health agencies are investigating the amount of swine flu infections throughout their respective locations.

The CDC has announced that the swine flu virus is indeed contageous and can be caught with person to person contact. Your best defense is a good offense. Some tips are provided to protect you from contracting the swine flu virus -

Viruses of any type are usually spread by people coughing or sneezing. The disease can also be spread by touching anything with the virus on it and then touching your nose or mouth.

The simplest and easiest strategy to defend against the swine flu virus is to simply wash your hands. The tip may sound small, but regular handwashing is something anyone can do.

Wash with soap and water. or use an alcohol-based hand cleaner. Any soap will do, but anti-bacterial is usually better. The hand washing basics are - wash with soap and warm water. Keep washing for at least 15 to 20 seconds. If no soap and water is available, use alcohol-based hand wipes or gel sanitizers. Both are available in most super markets and drug stores. When using alcohol sanitizers, work the gel into your hands until they are dry. The alcohol in the gel will kill the germs on your hands. Avoid contact your eyes, mouth and nose. This is a regular way of spreading germs.

Keep up your good health regiment like regular sleep, 30 minutes of daily physical activity, keep stress low, drink fluids regularly, and eat nutritious food. Try to keep minimal contact with those who are sick.

If you become sick, do your part as well. Stay home from work or school.

Educate and protect yourself again the swine flu and other flu viruses.