Swin Flu (also called Pig Flu and Hog Flu) is a viral infection caused primarily in pigs. Till now, Swine Flu is known to be a strain of Influenza Type C virus and subtypes of Influenza Type A virus (H1N1, H1N2, H3N1, H3N2, and H2N3.) Swine Flu is typically a disease related to pigs but some strains of Flu virus can affect human body thereby causing infection.

There have been several Swine Flu virus outbreaks in humans across the world in 20th century. 1918 Swine Flu pandemic in humans killed 50 to 100 million people worldwide. In 1976 and 1998 there was a Swine Flu outbreak in US. In year 2007, there was an outbreak of Swine Flu in Pigs. In year 2009, world witnessed another Swine Flu pandemic affecting humans across the globe. 2009 Swine Flu outbreak was first noticed in Mexico and the virus quickly spread across the globe.

Swine Flu spreads through air. If a person around you is suffering from Swine Flu, you are also at risk of getting infected with the virus. Coughing and sneezing by person affected can transmit virus among people around him. Patients suffering from Swine Flu are quarantined by medical authorities to prevent further spread of Flu virus.

Symptoms of Swine Flu

Symptoms of Swine Flu are Fever, Cough, Chills, Fatigue, Diarrhea, Vomiting, Sore Throat, Headache, Body Pain, Shortness of breath, pain in stomach, dizziness, and other neurological problems. Swine flu can get complicated with pneumonia.

In Children, Swine Flu infection can have some symptoms like respiratory problems, blue lips, dehydration, excessive sleeping and irritated behavior.

Swine Flu Medication

TamiFlu and Relenza are known to be effective Anti Flu drugs which help in treatment and prevention of Swine Flu Virus. Both medications have side effects like nausea, loss of appetite, vomiting and trouble breathing. Children can show behavioral side effects as well.

Peramivir is another drug that is administered to combat Swine Flu. Though it is recommended for emergency usage, the drug is still under experimental stage.

Swine Flu Prevention Tips

• Wash your hands properly with soap frequently.
• Drink plenty of liquids.
• Avoid visiting areas where Swine Flu has been reported.
• Take immune boosting food.
• Try not to touch your nose and face with hands.
• If you have symptoms of Swine Flu, immediately contact a doctor.