Swine flu is caused by the H1N1 influenza virus, which originally infected pigs. However, the virus can also infect humans. Transmission occurs through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Additionally, touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching the face can lead to infection.
The H1N1 infection symptoms are similar to those of other flu infections, and may include:
Flu symptoms appear one to three days after being exposed to the virus.
Adults may experience the following emergency signs and symptoms:
The emergency signs and symptoms in children may include:
If you have flu symptoms for a long time such as fever, cough, and body pains, you need to consult a doctor. However, if you have flu symptoms and are pregnant or have a chronic disease such as diabetes, asthma, emphysema, or heart problems, call your doctor since you are at a higher risk of flu complications.
Swine flu is caused due to H1N1 influenza viruses, which invade the cells that line the nose, throat, and lungs.
Swine flu is a contagious respiratory infection, and it spreads similarly to seasonal flu. When infected people cough or sneeze, they release tiny drops of the virus into the air. If anyone comes in contact with these drops or touches a contaminated surface containing this virus, the person can catch swine flu.
Few individuals are at higher risk of becoming seriously sick if they get infected with the swine flu virus. Those groups are:
Influenza complications include:
Preventing swine flu involves taking proactive measures to reduce the risk of infection.
Key prevention strategies include:
The doctor will conduct a medical examination, check for signs and symptoms of influenza, and also H1N1 flu (swine flu), and mostly recommend a test that detects influenza viruses such as H1N1. A swab sample collected from the nose or throat is used to help identify the flu virus.
In many hospitals and labs, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing is becoming more widespread. This test may be performed while you are in the doctor's office or a hospital. PCR testing is more sensitive than other tests and may be able to determine the strain of influenza.
Most flu patients, particularly those infected with H1N1 (swine flu), merely seek symptom alleviation. Drinking water, taking pain medicines for fever and headache, and taking rest may be beneficial. The doctor may prescribe extra medications to help relieve the flu symptoms if you have a chronic respiratory disease.
Antiviral medications are occasionally provided within the first or two days of symptoms. They have the potential to lower the intensity of symptoms as well as the risk of complications. However, flu viruses can acquire resistance to these medications.
Doctors reserve antivirals for patients at high risk of complications to reduce the likelihood of drug resistance and to keep supplies of these medications for those who need them the most.
Swine flu is a contagious disease and is also known as H1N1 flu. Its symptoms are similar to seasonal flu, they include chills, cough, body pains, runny or stuffy nose, etc. Its diagnosis includes swab sample collection and physical examination.
| Do’s | Don’ts |
| Get your H1N1 vaccination done. | Interact directly with your family members. |
| Stay at home once you get diagnosed with swine flu. | Depend on face masks. |
| Cover your nose and mouth while sneezing or coughing. | Smoke and drink alcohol |
| Take doctor-prescribed medicines for swine flu on-time | Go out in crowded places |
| Inform your doctor if you have breathing problems. | Drink less fluids |
Swine flu treatment consists of taking rest and medications, drinking fluids, etc. This infection can lead to many other lung problems, therefore follow the above tips to prevent its severity and complications.
At Medicover Hospitals, we have the most trusted team of medical experts who are experienced in providing the best healthcare services to our patients. Our diagnostic department is equipped with modern technology and equipment to conduct the tests required for the diagnosis of swine flu. We have an excellent team of doctors who diagnose and treat this condition with utmost precision that brings successful treatment outcomes.
Symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, fatigue, and occasionally vomiting and diarrhea.
Swine flu spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also spread by touching a surface contaminated with the virus.
Those at higher risk include pregnant women, young children, elderly individuals, and people with underlying health conditions such as asthma or diabetes.
Prevention methods include getting vaccinated, practicing good hygiene such as washing hands frequently, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and staying home when you're ill.
If you suspect you have swine flu, it's important to seek medical care promptly, especially if you're at higher risk for complications. Your healthcare provider can guide treatment options and whether antiviral medications are necessary.
