Swine Flu (H1N1) Symptoms and How it Spreads
In April of 2009, the virus known as the “Swine Flu” or “N1H1” made itself known in the United States. By the 29th day of October in the year 2009, it was reported that by the end of July, it is believed that nearly six million living in the United States actually had this devastating version of influenza.
This is one hundred and forty times the amount of the actual number of cases that were reported at that time. Although vaccinations are now being offered in certain areas, the Swine Flu or N1H1 is continuing to spread. It is important that you are able to identify the Swine Flu symptoms, and that you have an understanding of how this potentially fatal condition spread.
In the earliest days of the Swine Flu, many were given the impression that this disease came as a consequence of humans working with and/or near diseased pigs. Today, it is known that this influenza strain is strictly a human condition.
To those who have contracted the illness, acquired it from human to human transmission. Interestingly enough, when scientists examined this particular strain of the H1N1 Swine Flu, they discovered that it had actual genes derived from viruses that affect pigs, birds, as well as humans. As the virus affects an individual, it actually goes through a metamorphic process in which it changes prior to spreading to another person. This, in part, is what has made it such a challenging condition to treat and prevent.
There are many unique names associated with this influenza strain. The most common name is the “Swine Flu”. The Center for Disease Control identifies the virus as the “2009 H1NI Virus”. However, other names include:
Quadruple Assortment H1N1
Swine Flu H1N1
2009 H1N1 Type A Influenza
Seeing that the virus changes so rapidly, individuals do not possess what is referred to as a “Natural Immunity” to the condition. There are vaccinations for the standard influenza and for the H1N1 virus, but even the effectiveness of these vaccinations are still under evaluation.
The Symptoms of the Swine Flu H1N1 are similar to the traditional influenza. These include the following:
A fever that is at or exceeds 100.4 °F
High levels of fatigue
Pain in the head and neck
Drainage from the nose
Soreness in the throat
A mild to severe cough
Complications in breathing
A loss of appetite
Muscles that ache
Gastrointestinal challenges such as vomiting and diarrhea
Not all individuals experience the same symptoms when it comes to the Swine Flu. Many just have few symptoms and others may have more symptoms. The main thing to watch for is a fever. If you have a fever with other symptoms, you may need to make an appointment with a doctor. If the medical professional suspects that you have the Sine Flu H1N1, you will likely be prescribed antiviral medication and bed rest.