Healthagen’s Blog

Swine Flu Update[i]

What do I need to know?

The Swine Flu virus is a variant of the more common influenza A virus. It normally can only be contracted after close contact with pigs but this variety has changed enabling the virus to be transmitted between people. The virus causes a flu like illness consisting of fever, headache, muscle aches, runny nose and cough. There have been over 100 deaths in Mexico associated with the infection and as of 4/27/09 40 confirmed infections in the United States. All of the infections in the US have resolved on their own or been easily treated with anit-viral medications.

Who should receive treatment?

Authorities are recommending treatment for all suspected or confirmed cases of swine flu infections. The following are criteria for suspecting a Swine Flu infection:

• Patients with a fever and cough, sore throat or runny nose AND

• Traveled in the 7 days preceding their illness to:
  • San Diego area, OR
  • San Antonio area, Texas, OR
  • Mexico, OR

• Were in contact with persons with a fever and cough or runny nose who were in these locations

What medications can be used to treat Swine Flu?

Antiviral treatment may include either oseltamivir (Tamiflu) or zanamivir (Relenza). Treatment should be initiated as soon as possible after onset of symptoms.

Can the infection be prevented?

Unfortunately the flu shot is not very effective in preventing a Swine Flu infection. Giving anti-viral medications can help prevent the disease. Authorities recommend preventative treatment in the following circumstances:

• Household close contacts who are at high-risk for complications of flu (persons with certain chronic medical conditions, elderly) of a confirmed or suspected case.

• School children who are at high-risk for complications of flu (persons with certain chronic medical conditions) who had close contact (face-to-face) with a confirmed or suspected case.

• Travelers to Mexico who are at high-risk for complications of flu (persons with certain chronic medical conditions, elderly).

• Border workers (Mexico) who are at high-risk for complications of flu (persons with certain chronic medical conditions, elderly).

• Health care workers or public health workers who had unprotected close contact with an ill confirmed case of swine flu virus infection during the case’s infectious period.