April 1, 2025

Swine flu is a type of viral infection which usually affects pigs and is caused by the H1N1 Influenza A virus. The virus causes lung disease in pigs and respiratory infections in humans. It is a highly transmittable disease that often spreads through inhalation of contaminated droplets present in the atmosphere, which are often released from people coughing or sneezing. Contrary to common belief, the virus isn’t contracted by consuming cooked pork products. Additionally, its symptoms are similar to those of any common flu or viral infection. However, some people can also develop severe complications like respiratory failure or pneumonia.

In 2009, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared this flu a pandemic as it had led to several deaths. The pandemic was declared over in the year 2010; however, the strains of the H1N1 virus still continue to cause seasonal flu. Although most people recover from it on their own, some people may experience deadly symptoms, especially those at high risk. Therefore, it is vital to know and understand swine flu symptoms and treatments to help you seek medical help at an early stage before it causes severe complications.

Common Swine Flu Symptoms

Swine flu symptoms are similar to those of any common flu. People often develop symptoms 1 – 4 days after being exposed to the virus. This period is also known as the swine flu incubation period. Some of the most common symptoms demonstrated include:

• Fever and chills
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Fatigue or weakness
• Headache

Although most people experience mild symptoms, severe cases could lead to respiratory failure, chest pain, or even death. Furthermore, young children, pregnant women, senior individuals and those with weak immune systems are at a higher risk of contracting the flu.

Causes and Transmission

The flu is caused by the H1N1 virus, which was first found in pigs. However, over time, this virus has mutated and started infecting humans. Similar to any other seasonal flu, this too spreads through:

Person-to-person contact: Shaking hands or touching an infected person and then touching the face can cause the infection to spread.

Respiratory droplets: Inhaling droplets in the atmosphere spread by the coughing or sneezing of an infected person can lead to infection.

Contaminated areas: Touching surfaces like tables, mobile screens, etc., that might contain the virus and then touching the face can increase the chances of contracting the infection. The virus can sustain on such contaminated surfaces for a short time. Wash your hands thoroughly before touching the face.

Treatment for Swine Flu

Swine flu treatment varies depending on the severity of the symptoms and the person’s overall health. Most symptoms are manageable and can be treated at home itself. However, those at higher risk and having severe symptoms may require medical interventions.

Some of the common treatment methods include the following:

Home Remedies and Care: Getting sufficient rest and giving your body time to heal and fight the virus while nourishing yourself with nutritious food is highly beneficial for symptom management. Common home remedies for swine flu include –

• Drinking enough water: Staying hydrated by consuming enough liquids such as water, herbal teas, clear soups, etc., helps prevent dehydration while simultaneously soothing sore throat.
• Taking steam or using humidifiers: Having a stuffy nose is a common symptom of the flu and steam inhalation helps ease nasal congestion.
• Consuming nutritious meals: Incorporating sufficient greens, protein and fibre in your diet helps boost immunity and fight the flu better.
• Gargling with warm water: It helps ease throat irritation.

Over-The-Counter Medications: People often opt for OTC drugs when symptoms like fever and body aches are persistent in the flu. Common medications like Tylenol help reduce fever and bodily soreness.

Antiviral Medication: Individuals having severe symptoms or those falling under the higher risk categories are often provided with antiviral medications by their doctors. These medications prevent the virus in the body from multiplying and reduce symptoms, aiding quick and complete recovery. It even reduces the risks of further complications like developing pneumonia or respiratory failure.

Hospitalised Care: Severe cases might require hospitalisation and constant monitoring to ensure the patient’s condition is stabilised with proper medical interventions. Zenplus offers immediate and well-equipped ambulance services that ensure you reach the nearest hospital as soon as possible. Patients having difficulty breathing may require oxygen therapy or even mechanical ventilation to prevent respiratory failure. IV fluids, antibiotic treatment, etc., are also provided to ensure proper organ function and recovery.

Tips to Prevent Swine Flu

Preventing swine flu requires more than practising good hygiene and maintaining healthy surroundings. Here are some quick tips you could use to ensure you and your family are safe from swine flu:

Vaccination: Getting annual flu vaccinations not only protect you from contracting the H1N1 virus but are also a reliable means of preventing other seasonal flus.

Cover your nose and mouth while sneezing or coughing: Respiratory droplets are the primary means of flu transmissions. Practicing coughing and sneezing etiquettes can help reduce the spread of H1N1 virus, thereby preventing swine flu.

Avoid crowded places: Reduce or avoid visiting crowded places when flu cases are on the rise. Person-to-person contact, coughing, sneezing, etc., is found in extremities in such settings and can contribute to the spread of flu.

Boost your immunity: Consume a nutritious and well-balanced diet to strengthen your immunity. A healthy and strong immune system helps fight viruses and keeps you protected from any infection.

Conclusion

Swine flu is often manageable at home. However, complications can arise at any moment and taking the right steps is crucial to prevent damage to one’s health. If the symptoms continue to prolong, seek medical help to receive appropriate evaluation and treatment as soon as possible. Do not ignore the signs and symptoms of flu; they could lead to something severe. Your health is a priority.

FAQs

1. How is swine flu diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider may ask you about your symptoms and perform a physical exam or may conduct a rapid flu test that checks for flu viruses, including the H1N1 virus.

2. How long does swine flu last?

It typically lasts for 7 to 10 days. However, depending on the severity of the symptoms, people may recover early or take a little longer than usual.

3. Can you get swine flu more than once?

Yes, it is possible to contract swine flu more than once; however, such scenarios are highly uncommon.