H1N1 flu

Influenza ("flu") is an infection caused by a virus called the influenza virus. Symptoms of influenza, such as fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, muscle ache, and tiredness are usually more severe compared to the common cold, which is caused by other respiratory viruses.

2009 Influenza A (H1N1), also written as ‘Influenza A (H1N1-2009)’ (previously referred to as "new strain of swine flu") is a new strain of influenza virus that spreads from human to human.

Influenza A (H1N1-2009) spreads from human to human in the same way as seasonal flu. Flu can be spread when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks. The flu viruses are transmitted into the air through droplets and other people breathe in the viruses. When these viruses enter the nose, throat, or lungs of a person, they begin to multiply, causing symptoms of the flu. The viruses can also be spread indirectly when a person touches a surface with flu viruses on it (for example, a door knob) and then touches his or her nose or mouth. Transmission can also occur when an infected person shares food with others during mealtime without a serving spoon.

In Asia, the countries with H1N1 Flu are China, Japan, 4 cornfirmed cases each. Malaysia, 2 confirmed cases.

Prevention

Since the illness occurs through direct contact with infectious material and respiratory secretions, it is important to practise good personal hygiene. Take these everyday steps to protect your health:

Cover Your Nose and Mouth
With a tissue when you cough or sneeze and dispose the tissue properly in the trash after use.

Wash Your Hands
Regularly and thoroughly with soap and water.
Before and after preparing food
After going to the toilet
Before and after eating
After blowing your nose
After using your hand when coughing or sneezing

Contain the Spread of Flu
Use a serving spoon when sharing food from a common dish.
Do not share personal items such as toothbrushes and towels.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

If you are sick, avoid crowded areas and wear surgical mask.
Stay at home and do not go to work or school if ill.
See your family doctor if you have flu like symptoms and if you had recent travel to areas with cases of Influenza A(H1N1).

Build Up Your Immunity
If you are a smoker, quit smoking. It harms you and your family.
Take more fruit and vegetables. Fruit and vegetables are the most power-packed combination of nutrients your body needs for good health.
Drink the equivalent of 8 glasses of fluid daily.
Engage in 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity on 5 or more days a week.
Learn to relax and rest.
Keep Your Environment Clean
Do not throw leftover food on the floor or in the open.
Do not leave food in common areas for stray animals.

The symptoms of influenza A (H1N1-2009) in people are similar to the symptoms of seasonal influenza. An early symptom is high fever, and this is followed by cough, sore throat, runny nose, and sometimes breathlessness a few days later Yes, so they would know when they should go to the doctor.

Source Health Promotion Board