Swine Flu Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention

Swine Flu Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention

Understanding

Swine flu is a type of influenza. The term used to refer to this disease is because pigs are thought to act as a mixing site for the genetic material of avian, swine and human influenza viruses. Until finally produce a virus with a new character.

This disease was widely discussed in 2009, especially in Indonesia, because of the many cases of swine flu that emerged.

Symptom

Symptoms of swine flu are similar to flu in general, such as:

  • fever
  • fatigue
  • muscle ache
  • lack of appetite
  • shortness of breath and cough

Transmission of this disease is through direct human-to-human contact which can occur through coughing, sneezing or through objects that have been touched by sufferers. A person’s susceptibility to infection depends on immunity status and length of contact with swine flu sufferers. The incubation period for the flu is 3–5 days.

Reason

Swine flu is caused by the Orthomyxoviridae virus, with the H1N1 virus subtype. Like the influenza virus in general, this virus attacks the nose, throat and lungs of the sufferer.

The transmission of this disease is through direct human-to-human contact. Transmission media can occur through coughing, sneezing or through objects that have been touched by sufferers. A person’s susceptibility to infection depends on immunity status and length of contact with swine flu sufferers. The incubation period for the flu is 3–5 days.

Although the term swine flu is often associated with pigs, pork itself is known not to be a medium for transmitting the H1N1 virus.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of swine flu can be determined by observing the patient’s symptoms, such as fever, tiredness, muscle aches, coughing and shortness of breath. Physical examination may reveal fever and rapid breathing.

To definitively diagnose influenza, a laboratory examination of a throat swab to see if the influenza virus is present can be done.

Treatment

Swine flu is treated with supportive treatment. Provision of nutritious food intake, adequate fluids, and fever medication can be done. Meanwhile, administration of antivirals in the form of oseltamivir and zanamivir can be given on the first or second day of the disease to reduce the severity of this disease.

Prevention

Prevention of swine flu can be done through a few simple personal hygiene measures, such as:

1. Maintain personal hygiene by washing your hands every time and before eating.
2. Do not touch the mucosal areas of the body (eyes, nose, mouth), especially if your hands are dirty.
3. Use a mask if a friend is experiencing flu symptoms.

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