Prevention of Human Swine Influenza
What is human swine influenza?
Human swine influenza (HSI) is caused by the novel Influenza A (H1N1) virus. Like seasonal flu, HSI mainly spreads from person to person via coughs and sneezes. People may also become infected by touching objects soiled with the virus and then touching their mouth, nose or eyes. The symptoms of HSI are generally similar to those of human seasonal influenza and include fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, muscle pain and headache. Some infected persons may also have nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. Most cases of HSI have been mild though fatal cases do occur, notably among people with chronic illness.
How to prevent HSI?
Although HSI can be treated by antiviral agents, drug resistance has occasionally been reported. This makes prevention of disease especially important. Vaccination is one of the effective ways to prevent HSI and its complications. Maintaining good hygiene practices and building up body resistance are also important. One should adopt a balanced diet, regular exercise and adequate rest; manage stress and refrain from smoking.
Observe personal hygiene
Wash hands frequently with liquid soap and water. Alcohol-based handrub is also effective when hands are not visibly soiled.
Avoid touching the mouth, nose and eyes.
Cover nose and mouth with tissue paper when or coughing.
Observe environmental hygiene
Maintain good indoor ventilation.
Maintain household and environmental hygiene by cleaning with detergent or 1 in 99 diluted bleach (1 part of 5.25% concentration of sodium hypochlorite household bleach in 99 parts of water) and water.
When influenza is prevalent, avoid visiting crowded and poorly ventilated places. If you must do so, shorten the duration of stay, and consider putting on a mask.
Get vaccinated
What should I do if I have symptoms of HSI?
Put on a face mask immediately.
Seek medical attention as soon as possible and follow doctor's prescription.
Stay at home, in a separate room if possible; avoid having contact with others until your illness is over; do not go to work or school; and do not travel.
Step up personal and environmental hygiene.
Watch out for warning signs (refer to Table 1) that might call for urgent medical attention.
Table 1: Seek medical care right away if the sick person :
√ has difficulty in breathing or chest pain
√ has purple or blue discoloration of the lips
√ is vomiting and unable to swallow liquids
√ has signs of dehydration such as dizziness when standing, absence of urination, or in an infant, a lack of tears when crying
√ has seizures
√ is less responsive than normal or becomes confused
Consult a doctor if in doubt. |
For more information, please visit the Centre for Health Protection website or call the 24-Hour Health Education Hotline.
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January 2010
