Swine Flu

It is a outbreak of a new strain of a Influenza a virus subtype H1N1, referred to as the “novel H1N1” fist defined in April 2009, and commonly called “SWINE FLU”. It is thought to be a reassortment of four known strains of influenza A virus one endemic in normally infecting humans, one endemic in birds and two endemic in pigs.
This is an epidemic disease which spreads from coughs and sneezes or by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the nose or mouth.
It has symptoms similar to those of seasonal flu, which includes fever, sneezes, sore throat, coughs, headaches and muscle or joint pains.
There are antiviral medicines you can take to prevent or treat swine flu. There is no vaccine available right now to protect against swine flu.
One can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza by
 Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
 Washing your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. You can also use alcohol-based hand cleaners.
 Avoiding touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
 Trying to avoid close contact with sick people.
 Staying home from work or school if you are sick.
The recent reports indicate that there are 2,242 cases infected in India alone. Since there are no vaccines found yet the death rate has counted to 34 till Wednesday in India where 7 cases are from Bangalore.