What is Swine Flu?
Swine flu is a disease caused by the influenza type A virus and normally only infects animals, such as pigs. Influenza
viruses are always changing into slightly different strains of the same virus. The latest strain of swine flu - influenza
A virus subtype H1N1 - has been confirmed as being a new strain that is much more easily transmittable between humans.
The World Health Organisation has warned that the potential threat from swine flu is very high and MUST be taken seriously. We are closer to a global pandemic now than at any other point since 1968. The symptoms of swine flu are similar to that of regular flu, including body aches, fever, chills and fatigue.
The outbreak began in Mexico in April 2009. Soon after, their government closed down most of Mexico City's public and private offices and facilities to help contain the spread. In early June, as the virus spread globally, the World Health Organisation declared the outbreak to be a pandemic, while also noting that the virus has so far been of "moderate severity". The World Health Organisation anticipates a bleaker picture, however, as the swine flu virus spreads.
The virus typically spreads from coughs and sneezes or by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the
nose or mouth. Symptoms are similar to those of seasonal flu, and may include fever, sneezes, sore throat, coughs,
headache, and muscle or joint pains. In an attempt to slow the spread of the illness, a number of countries,
especially in Asia, have enforced strict quarantines on travellers showing any symptoms, along with travellers
seated near any infected persons. Some have even requested pre-screening passengers before they travel.
The World Health Organisation does not expect to have a full vaccine for many months, and the supply will be limited. It is likely that two or three vaccine injections will be required for maximum immunity from both swine flu and seasonal flu. There is also concern that the virus could mutate later on and become more virulent and less susceptible to any new vaccine. This concern is partly due to the memory of the 1918 flu pandemic, which is thought to have killed between 40 million and 100 million people, and was preceded by a wave of milder cases in the spring.
