Increase in swine flu cases in Ludhiana
Ludhiana has reported 26 swine flu cases so far this year, according to reports. District health officials have highlighted an early increase in the number of cases of the disease. According to a Hindustan Times report, district epidemiologist Dr Ramanpreet Kaur said, “Last year, the district recorded 33 cases. However, they began to surface with the arrival of winter. This year, cases began in July, something not usually seen.
Dr Kaur said the total number of cases this year could be higher as 26 cases have already been recorded till early October. He added that while there have been no deaths from the disease this year, two of the cases are active.
Talking about the symptoms of swine flu, Dr Kaur said, “Fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue, diarrhea and shortness of breath are some of the main symptoms that develop in swine flu patients.
He advised that those experiencing such symptoms consult a doctor as soon as possible. Doctors advised the same precautions as Covid-19. He added: “Cover your mouth when coughing and sneezing, wash your hands with soap before and after touching your eyes, nose and mouth, avoid crowded places and stay away from those with symptoms.”
Swine flu, also known as H1N1 flu, is a type of influenza A virus. Mayo Clinic says that during the 2009-2010 flu season, a new H1N1 virus began causing illness in humans. It was often called swine flu and was a new combination of influenza viruses that infect pigs, birds and humans. Most people with the flu get better on their own. However, flu complications can be serious for some people and, for people at high risk, can be fatal.
Swine flu symptoms
The signs of swine flu are similar to those of other flu viruses. Below, take a look at some of the common signs of the flu:
- Fever, but not always
- Chills and sweats
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- sore muscles
- eye pain
- body aches
- Watery and red eyes
- Headache
- Tiredness and weakness
- Diarrhea.
Causes of swine flu
The H1N1 virus infects the cells that line the nose, throat, and lungs. The virus can spread through air droplets when a person infected with the virus coughs, sneezes, breathes, or talks. The virus then enters your body when you breathe in contaminated air droplets. However, you cannot get the flu from eating pork.
Preventive measures for swine flu
The best way to prevent swine flu (H1N1) is to get an annual flu vaccine, says the Mayo Clinic. Here, take a look at other ways to prevent catching and spreading swine flu.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you sneeze or cough.
- If you don’t have a tissue, sneeze or cough into your elbow.
- Wash your hands with soap and water.
- Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth.
- Avoid people who are sick.
- Stay home if you are sick.
- Don’t share personal items like cups, straws, and utensils.
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