Monday, April 27, 2009
Facts About Swine Flu
SDSU public health professor Dr. Tom Novotny discusses the disease.
As swine flu continues to dominate headlines, the United States and other countries across the globe are increasing their efforts to address this significant health issue.
New strain of swine flu
“This swine flu is a new variety of influenza—a respiratory virus that has been harbored in pigs and now has the ability to be transmitted between human beings,” said Tom Novotny, M.D., a public health professor at San Diego State University.
According to Dr. Novotny, there have been many other swine flu strains in the past, but this one is worrisome because it is new and the current flu vaccine does not protect against it. Swine flu has already caused several dozen deaths and is widespread in parts of Mexico. Of the 40 confirmed cases in the United States, which have been milder than those in Mexico, only four have been reported here in San Diego.
Another troublesome characteristic of the current virus is that it has affected mainly children and young adults, whereas influenza usually impacts older, debilitated individuals.
What is being done?
The influenza teams at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) are staying on top of the matter, asking for careful surveillance and reporting of cases. According to Dr. Novotny, CDC labs are identifying suspect cases, and contemplating a vaccine. However, vaccines do take about six months to develop, he said. Risk of spread is also global; thus, the outbreak is being monitored carefully.
“The good news is that if detected early, swine flu can be treated with at least two antiviral medications (including Tamiflu),” said Dr. Novotny. “Those who have a low grade fever, aches, cough, weakness, nausea and sore throat should consult their physician, who may request nasal swabs to confirm a diagnosis.”
Protecting yourself
Dr. Novotny said to prevent flu infection, people should stay home if they have symptoms. Frequent handwashing is essential, as the spread of respiratory diseases happens through person-to-person contact, as well as through droplets spread by coughing and sneezing. Dr. Novotny stressed the importance of covering one’s nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing.
SDSU’s Student Health Services posted a health alert on its site to warn students about the virus and what to do should they experience symptoms. Students studying abroad in Mexico have also been notified. However, they are not in the affected areas.
For more information about Swine Flu and SDSU, visit the Swine Flu Information Center.
Below are links with additional resources: