Influenza A (H1N1) – A threat beyond borders

BEWARE – BE PREPARED
What is Influenza A (H1N1)?
2009 Influenza A (H1N1) (previously referred to as 'new strain of swine flu') is a new strain of influenza virus that spread from human to human. Influenza A (H1N1) is a viral respiratory disease that presents flu-like symptoms.
What are the sings and symptoms of infection?
The symptoms of Influenza A (H1N1) are similar to the symptoms of seasonal flu. There symptoms can vary in severity from mild to severe, and include the following:

• High fever (>38°C)
• Sore throat
• Cough
• Body aches
• Runny nose
• Headaches
• Tiredness

What can I do to protect myself and others against the Influenza A (H1N1)?
Practise good personal hygiene and be socially responsible by:

• Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly with soap and water, especially before touching you eyes, nose or mouth.
• Turning quickly away from anyone near you if you are about to cough or sneeze, and do not cough or sneeze at him.
• Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Dispose of the tissue properly in the dust bin after use.
• Avoiding crowded places if you are unwell and wear a surgical mask to cover your nose and mouth.
• Staying home from work or school when you are sick.
• Using a serving spoon when sharing food at meal times.

Also, leading a healthy lifestyle helps to build up your immunity and protects you against infection.

• Eat a balanced diet, including plenty of fruit and vegetables.
• Be active. Do 30 minutes of physical activity at least 5 days a week.
• Learn to relax and have enough sleep and rest.
• Do not smoke.

Treatment
There are antiviral medications available to treat Influenza A (H1N1), such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and zanamivir (Relenza). They fight against the Influenza A (H1N1) virus reproducing itself in the body. When taken early (within 2 days of the appearance of symptoms), these medications may:

• Reduce the severity of the infection with faster recovery from the illness.
• Prevent serious complications.

How does Influenza A (H1N1) spread among humans?
Spread of Influenza A (H1N1) is similar to seasonal flu. It can be spread when an infected person coughs, sneezes or speaks. It can also be spread when a person touches a contaminated surface and then touches his or her nose or mouth.

Is Influenza A (H1N1) infection serious?
Influenza A (H1N1) infection in humans can range from mild illness to serious and life threatening illness. Deaths from pneumonia and respiratory failure have been reported with Influenza A (H1N1) infection.
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1. If you have travelled to any Influenza A (H1N1) affected areas and have developed fever (temperature > 38°C) with either cough, runny nose or sore throat within 7 days after your return, please call 993.
2. If you have close contact with a person with Influenza A (H1N1) and have developed fever (temperature > 38°C) with either cough, runny nose or sore throat within 7 days, please call 993.
3. Provide your doctor accurate information regarding your recent travels and contact with any persons suspected of having flu.

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This health message is brought to you by Health Promotion Board. For more information,

• Visit www.moh.gov.sg or www.hpb.gov.sg
  
• Call Healthline at 1800 223 1313 to speak to a Nurse Advisor during office hours.

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As a precaution, take supplements

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