SWINE FLU !

Introduction:
I decided to do my project on Swine flu. It is a topic that is talked about every day in
newspapers , television and with the general public. I think everyone will know
someone who has it or at least worry about the symptoms they may have.

Swine Flu is a Respiratory Disease of pigs.

It is a virus that has changed its antigenetic structure to create new strain .This
strain originally lived in pigs known as H1N1 and was first isolated from a pig in
1930. The first outbreak reported of Swine flu was in Mexico which was thought to
have been ongoing for months

There are many similar symptoms with all Influenzas:

• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Headache
• Sore throat
• Fever
• Muscle/joint pain
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

However, in some cases it is reported people that are in a high risk group and have a
weakened immune system are at more risk of the disease progressing to the point
of respiratory failure.

• Asthma
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Heart disease
• Pregnancy

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The disease is spread by:

• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Touching contaminated surfaces then touching the nose or mouth

Past History

The virus H1N1 has caused many problems in the past. Scientists are continually
finding new medicines to combat these viruses but just as quickly new strains
emerge, so before getting to a Pandemic it is a race against time.

There have been a few serious outbreaks of this or similar viruses in which
millions lost their lives.

• Hong Kong flu 1968-69 A/H3N2

• Asian flu 1956-58 A/H2N2
• Spanish flu 1918-19 A/H1N1

Vaccination

As like other governments around the world we have been offered a vaccination and
Antiviral Drugs Tamiflu and Relenza to protect us from getting this disease .Should
anyone feel concerned they have caught Swine flu they should:

• Stay at home
• Contact G.P
• Contact NHS Direct Wales

There is a National Pandemic Flu Service in place that will help take the pressure off
our “front line” health service.

There have been nearly 5,000 deaths Worldwide as a result of Swine flu.
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Health and Safety

To help and perhaps stop us catching this disease simple hygiene practices apply:

• Clean surfaces frequently touched

• Use tissues when sneezing/coughing
• Bin tissues after one use
• Wash hands often with soap and water/sanitiser

CATCH IT
BIN IT
KILL IT