As the whole world and India is trying to control the epidemic of coronavirus, the deadly swine flu (H1N1 virus) has raised its head again as two employees of SAP has been reportedly tested positive in Bengaluru. Due to this, SAP is assumed to shut down its offices in Bengaluru, Gurugram and Mumbai to prevent the spread of the virus and start sanitation measures. However, the World Health Organisation (WHO), has already declared it as ‘post-pandemic’.

In 2009, the whole world had witnessed H1N1 outbreak for the first time and the WHO had declared it as pandemic. It is the zoonotic disease which has emerged from pigs and had never encountered before, and was already spreading to several countries. That time, not much was known about this H1N1 influenza, but by 2010, countless people around the world were exposed to it. Therefore, WHO decided to label it ‘post-pandemic’ which means that the disease has been incorporated into human population and there will happen seasonal periods when swine flu cases will flow around the world.

If you want, can get yourself vaccinated but can also take few other measures to protect yourself and your family. Maintain basic hygiene and wash your hands carefully with soap and water.

Dr Swati Rajagopal, Consultant-Infectious Disease of Aster CMI Hospital in Bangalore have said that due to global climate changes and a dip in temperature are few of the possible reasons that could have resulted in a significant rise in the number of H1N1 cases. Hence, it is important to take influenza dangers seriously as they have the potential to spread quickly around the world and cause pandemics. Contact and air-borne spread are two major factors that had led to the contamination of the virus. Intensifying fever, severe headache, shortness of breath, runny nose, irritation in eyes, body ache, muscle aches, sore throat, vomiting and acute dysentery are few of the symptoms of the disease. Therefore, it is advisable that if anyone has such symptoms then he or she should not travel as it can lead to cross transmission of the disease.

She also said that extra care and precaution should be taken for children, elderly, pregnant women and people who are suffering from chronic disease, such as asthma, emphysema, diabetes or a heart condition, as they are at a higher risk of complications from the disease.

The symptoms of H1N1 disease are very similar to common flu and many people have become drug resistant. It is important for people, especially children, to havea diet rich in protein, antioxidants and vitamins for improving body’s immunity. Keep yourself hydrated. Vegetables, soups, vitamin C rich fruits will safeguard that your body remains hydrated for long time. Avoid caffeinated beverages, alcohol and processed foods during flu. Vaccination is an effective approach to decrease complications secondary to influenza. Proper and nutritious diet for kids helps in speedy recovery.

Source: The Indian Express