Global outbreak of SWINE FLU – Flu Pandemic- A global concern!

Causative Organism: A new strain of Influenza A virus subtype

mutation—more specifically, a mix —of four known strains of Influenza
A Virus subtype H1N1

Mode of Transmission: Virtually all transmission is humans to human

by coughs and sneezes or by touching contaminated surfaces and then
touching the nose or mouth.
Cooked pork products are safe for humans and the virus cannot be
transmitted from foods

Symptoms: Similar to those of seasonal flu, and may include fever,

sneezes, sore throat, coughs, headache, and muscle or joint pains.

Epidemiology: The outbreak began in Mexico, and there is evidence that Mexico
was already in the midst of an epidemic for months before the outbreak was
recognized.
Most hospitalizations have been of people that also had underlying conditions such as
asthma, diabetes, obesity, heart disease, or a weakened immune system.
In early June, as the virus spread globally, the World Health Organisation (WHO)
declared the outbreak to be a pandemic, while also noting that the virus has so far
been of moderate severity. The virus spread to less developed countries with poorer
health care systems. By July, the virus was continuing to spread worldwide, especially
in Southern Hemisphere countries, where the winter flu season had started.
Prevention: In countries, especially in Asia, have enforced strict
quarantines on
1. Travellers showing any symptoms.

2. Travellers seated nearby any infected persons.

3. Some have even requested pre-screening passengers before they
travel.
Vaccination: Vaccines will be ready by August but of Limited
availability. Two to three vaccine injections will be required for
maximum immunity from both the swine flu and seasonal flu. Chances are
there that the virus still mutates and become more virulent and less susceptible to any new
vaccine.