General information about Swine flu

The world is facing a serious flu threat in the form of swine flu. Currently human cases of swine flu have been reported from Mexico and the US. Swine flu was first reported in Mexico, where several people have died from the new strain of the influenza virus, so health authorities have been put on a high alert to prevent a pandemic like situation from occurring.

Swine flu is a respiratory disease that is caused by influenza A (H1N1) virus. Its main symptoms are similar to that of a seasonal flu like fever, coughing, lack of appetite, runny nose, nausea, sore throat, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Swine flu medication
Currently there is no vaccine available for the treatment of swine flu. However, doctors feel that popular anti-viral drugs such as Tamiflu and Relenza can prove useful for treatment as well as preventive purposes.

A popular prescription drug, Tamiflu, can help treat influenza type A infection, which includes swine flu. Not only this, it can also prevent the flu. The main ingredient in Tamiflu is oseltamivir, which stops the further spread of the virus in the body, providing it more immunity to fight back.

Tamiflu is available only on prescription, so to buy it, you need to go to a doctor for medical check-up. If the doctor approves and provides you with a valid prescription, then you can buy Tamiflu from any local licensed pharmacy. Another way to buy this drug is over the internet.

The doses of Tamiflu for treatment as well as prevention of flu can vary. Always follow the recommendations of your doctor or pharmacy. Generally, for treatment purposes, adults can take one capsule dose twice daily for five days. For prevention measures, they can take one capsule daily for 10 days.

Since Tamiflu is a prescription drug, patients who takes it are  likely to suffer from some of its side effects such as nausea, vomiting, rash, abdominal pain, and sleep problems. It’s advisable for patients to take Tamiflu with food, as it can lower the intensity of these side effects. Remember, Tamiflu is a proven drug for flu treatment and proves beneficial for flu prevention too.

Another flu treatment called Relenza, contains the ingredients Zanamivir (5mg) and lactose (20 mg), which effectively treat influenza type A and B infections. This flu treatment comes in a powdered form, which is inhaled twice in a day for five days or at least once daily for up to 28 days.

Swine flu prevention
You can take Relenza for prevention purposes against flu infection, including swine flu. It prevents the further spread of flu virus in the body and strengthens the whole immune system.

Apart from taking any anti-viral medication, you can prevent swine flu infection by taking everyday preventive measures. First and foremost is to avoid a contact with an infected person. You should always try to keep a distance, and if he or she is your closest or dearest one, then use mask whenever you go nearer to that person.

Whenever you are sick due to flu infection, always stay at home to avoid spreading it While coughing or sneezing, always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue.

Be wise by maintaining good personal hygiene. Always wash your hands, as it protects you from germs. You should avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, as it increases the possibility of spreading germs, if you have touched any contaminated surface.