Swine Flu | A ( H1 N1) Influenza

72 swine flu cases in Jaipur | Jaipur Swine Flu Testing Center and Hospitals

2009-11-14T10:01:00.000-08:00

As another swine flu death and 80 more positive cases were reported across the state on Friday, the health department sent a reminder to districts to submit by Monday an action plan to contain spread of the disease.

Even ten days after they were asked to prepare an action plan for containment and management of swine flu during a meeting held by chief minister Ashok Gehlot, none of the district authorities have submitted the same.

The health department directed all district collectors to hold meetings with health officials at the level of primary health care centres and issue directions accordingly.

The department also took serious note of transferred doctors who have not reported to duty so far. "District collectors have raised the issue of non-joining by doctors. Directions have been given for doctors to join within three days, or disciplinary action will be taken against them," said Dr O P Gupta, director, public health.

While all routine training programmes of doctors have been postponed in view of the swine flu pandemic, no doctors will be relieved for training programmes other than swine flu. The health department has also instructed district administration to maintain an adequate stock of preventive kits and virus transport medium.

As the department experiences a shortage of doctors, walk-in interviews at district level for hiring contractual doctors have been allowed. To spread public awareness on the H1N1 virus, mobile phone and short messaging service (sms) will be used. Of the 80 new cases reported on Friday, 72 were from Jaipur alone, Jodhpur reported 4 cases, while Ajmer and Bikaner reported 2 cases each. Of these, 62 are children. The death of a 40-year-old swine flu patient was also confirmed in Ajmer, taking the state toll to 21. So far, 535 persons have tested positive for the disease in Rajasthan.

Jaipur Swine Flu Testing Center and Hospitals

Isolation/Critical Care Facility for Jaipur (Rajasthan)
Infectious District Hospital,
Near Charak Bhawan,
SMS Medical College,
Jaipur, Rajasthan
Dr. P. D.Vyas, Ph: (0141) 2564434, 518392, 2605148
Dr. Sen, Ph: 9887806450,
Dr. Girdhari, Ph: 9414772483
Dr. Somundra, Ph: 9829620508

Control Room
Office of the Director (Public Health),
Swasthaya Bhawan,
Jaipur.
Ph: 0141-2225624
Fax: 0141-2224831

Nodal Officer:
Mr. R K Meena, IAS, Principal Sect. (Health)
Dr. O P Gupta (Addl. Nodal Officer), Ph: (0141) 2229858, 09829333936

Swine flu spreading at 'unbelievable' rate: WHO

2009-08-29T10:11:00.001-07:00

Swine flu spreads four times faster than other viruses and 40 percent of the fatalities are young adults in good health, the world's top health official warned in an interview appearing Saturday.

"This virus travels at an unbelievable, almost unheard of speed," World Health Organisation Director General Margaret Chan told France's Le Monde daily in an interview.

"In six weeks it travels the same distance that other viruses take six months to cover," Chan said.

"Sixty percent of the deaths cover those who have underlying health problems," Chan said. "This means that 40 percent of the fatalities concern young adults -- in good health -- who die of a viral fever in five to seven days.

"This is the most worrying fact," she said, adding that "up to 30 percent of people in densely populated countries risked getting infected."

Chan's warning came a day after the WHO said the virus had overtaken others to become the most prevalent flu strain.

"Evidence from multiple outbreak sites demonstrates that the A(H1N1) pandemic virus has rapidly established itself and is now the dominant influenza strain in most parts of the world," the UN agency said in a statement.

"The pandemic will persist in the coming months as the virus continues to move through susceptible populations," it added.

Chan underlined that emergency and healthcare services in several countries had come under strain and stressed that resources allocated for cancer patients and those suffering from heart disease should not be diverted.

"One must not rob Peter to pay Paul," she said. "All governments must prepare for the worst."

She said the most important thing in the battle against the virus was "political leadership."

More than 2,180 people around the world have died from the virus since it emerged in April, according to the latest WHO figures.

Chan also said that it could be months before sufficient vaccine is available to combat the pandemic.

She put world production capacity at 900 million doses a year, for a global population of 6.8 billion people.

Even if this was an unprecedented effort, and authorities were speeding up procedures for getting vaccines to the market, there should be no question of compromises on their safety and effectiveness, Chan said.

Britain and France received their first batches of swine flu vaccine this week. Australia on Friday said a massive swine flu vaccination programme would start in October and Turkey hopes the first supplies of the vaccine will come by that time.

While 90 percent of severe and fatal cases occur in people aged above 65 in seasonal flu, most of those who die from swine flu are under the age of 50.

A "very severe form of disease" affecting the lungs and causing severe respiratory failure among young and healthy people was being reported, WHO said Friday, adding that highly specialised care was required.

Large numbers of such patients could therefore "overwhelm" intensive care units and disrupt the provision of care for other diseases, it warned.

In the southern hemisphere where the flu-prone winter season is tailing off, the WHO said cities in several countries had reported that nearly 15 percent of hospitalised cases required intensive care.

A related info here : http://abcnews.go.com/print?id=8438883

10 Things You Didn't Know About Swine Flu

2009-08-19T07:16:00.000-07:00

1. The most recent form of swine flu, known as the H1N1 influenza virus, was first detected in the United States in April 2009.

2. Scientists say the H1N1 virus contains a mixture of genes from four different flu viruses: two genes from flu viruses normally found in pigs in Europe and Asia and two found in avian and human genes in North America.

3. The swine flu, a respiratory virus, spreads from person to person mainly through coughing or sneezing. The virus is not spread through food such as pork or pork products.

4. As of July 27, the World Health Organization confirmed 134,503 cases of swine flu and 816 deaths from the virus worldwide. WHO predicts that the virus will infect 2 billion people over the next two years.

5. Certain people, such as those 65 years and older, children younger than 5, pregnant women, and people with chronic medical conditions, are at a higher risk of more serious flu-related complications.

6. Doctors advise against "swine flu parties" where people intentionally try to get infected with a mild form of the H1N1 virus in hopes of becoming naturally immune to a deadlier form.

7. Symptoms of the recent swine flu are similar to those of the seasonal flu.

8. WHO declared swine flu a pandemic on June 11, making it the first global flu epidemic in 41 years.

9. About 160 million doses of the swine flu vaccine are expected to be available sometime in October.

10. Pregnant women with swine flu are more likely to be hospitalized, a recent study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found. They made up 13 percent of the 45 H1N1 deaths from April 15 to June 16.

Sources:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
World Health Organization
Associated Press

Know the Difference between Cold and Swine Flu Symptoms

2009-08-17T09:47:00.003-07:00

Symptom	Cold	Swine Flu
Fever	Fever is rare with a cold.	Fever is usually present with the flu in up to 80% of all flu cases. A temperature of 100°F or higher for 3 to 4 days is associated with the flu.
Coughing	A hacking, productive (mucus- producing) cough is often present with a cold.	A non-productive (non-mucus producing) cough is usually present with the flu (sometimes referred to as dry cough).
Aches	Slight body aches and pains can be part of a cold.	Severe aches and pains are common with the flu.
Stuffy Nose	Stuffy nose is commonly present with a cold and typically resolves spontaneously within a week.	Stuffy nose is not commonly present with the flu.
Chills	Chills are uncommon with a cold.	60% of people who have the flu experience chills.
Tiredness	Tiredness is fairly mild with a cold.	Tiredness is moderate to severe with the flu.
Sneezing	Sneezing is commonly present with a cold.	Sneezing is not common with the flu.
Sudden Symptoms	Cold symptoms tend to develop over a few days.	The flu has a rapid onset within 3-6 hours. The flu hits hard and includes sudden symptoms like high fever, aches and pains.
Headache	A headache is fairly uncommon with a cold.	A headache is very common with the flu, present in 80% of flu cases.
Sore Throat	Sore throat is commonly present with a cold.	Sore throat is not commonly present with the flu.
Chest Discomfort	Chest discomfort is mild to moderate with a cold.	Chest discomfort is often severe with the flu.

Swine Flu a (H1 N1) | All Important Links

2009-08-16T04:04:00.000-07:00

Swine Flu a (H1 N1) | Helpline - India

Swine Flu: Top 20 Questions and Answers

How Effective Are Swine flu Masks>

Recommended home remedies against H1NI flu

Swine Flu a (H1 N1) | Frequently Asked Questions

Travel advisory from WHO

Steps to Lessen the Spread of Flu in the Home | how to handwash
H1N1 Swine Flu | Symptoms of Swine Flu
c| Swine Flu- Do's and don'ts
Influenza H1N1 List of State Nodal Officers and contact details of Control Room
List of Influenza A H1N1 affected countries as on 16.6.2009
GUIDELINES FOR SCHOOLS/COLLEGES/INSTITUTIONS ON INFLUENZA A/H1N
Guidelines for testing of persons with flu like symptoms reporting at hospitals notified for influenza H1N1
Travel Advice
Novel H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu) and You

Swine Flu a (H1 N1) | Helpline - India

2009-08-16T03:51:00.000-07:00

HOSPITALS

Mumbai: Kasturba Hospital
Ph: 022- 23083901 / 23092458 / 23000889

Mumbai: Bhabha Hospital in Bandra
Ph: 26422775 / 26429828 / 26406787

Mumbai: Rajawadi Hospital in Ghatkopar
Ph: 022-25094149

Delhi: Malviya Nagar hospital
Ph: 011-26689999

Delhi: RML Hospital
Ph: 011- 23365525

Chennai: Communicable Disease Hospital,
Ph: 91-11-24525211, 23404328

Bangalore: Rajiv Gandhi Institute Of Chest Diseases
Ph: 91-80-26631923

Pune: Dr. Naidu Infectious Disease Hospital,
Ph: 09923130909

Nagpur: Govt Medical College and Hospital,
Ph: 0712-2750730

Kolkatta: Beliaghata Infectious Diseases Hospital,
Ph: 09433392182

Mumbai: Bhagwati Hospital in Borivali
Ph: 022-28932461, 022-28932462, 022-28932463

Mumbai: M T Agarwal Hospital in Mulund
Ph: 022-25605728

Mumbai: Siddharth Hospital in Goregaon
Ph: 022 28766885, 022 28766886

Mumbai: Cooper hospital in Vile Parle
Ph: 022 6207254,022 6207256

Mumbai: S K Patil in Malad
Ph: 022 28891238

Mumbai: Bhabha hospital in Kurla
Ph: 022 6500241/144

Pune: Erandvana Hospital
Contact: Dr Sarita Ganala (9764000939)
Mhatre Bridge

Pune: Late Anandibai Narhar Gadgil Hospital,
Contact: Dr Jyotsana Khole (9422987953)
Ganj Peth

Pune: Late Balaji Rakhmaji Gaikwad Hospital,
Contact: Dr Sandhya Bahule
Narayan Peth

Pune: Late Kalavatibai Mavale Hospital,
Contact: Dr Nila Limaye (9881385015)
Pune: Late Mamasaheb Badade Hospital,
Contact: Dr Swati Joshi
Raviwar Peth

Pune: Hutatma Babu Genu Hospital,
Contact: Dr Dinesh Bende (9421018878)
Koregaon Park

Pune: Hospital for Swine Flu (H1N1 Virus) Screening
Late Bapusaheb Ganuji Kavade Hospital,
Contact: Dr Jaya Bhondave (9922504428)
Ganesh Peth

Pune: Late Rohidas Kirad Hospital,
Contact: Dr Chandrashekhar Gujar
Kothrud

Pune: Late Jayabai Nanasaheb Sutar MaternityHospital,
Contact: Dr Shyam Satpute (9823217047)
Alandi Road

Pune: Siddharth Hospital
Contact: Dr Bhagwant Gagare (9423004811)
Sahakarnagar

Pune: Late Shivshankar Pote Hospital,
Contact: Dr Vidya Rajwade (9422520930)
Aundh Road

Pune: Late Baburao Genba Shavale Hospital,
Contact: Dr Madhuri Gare (9823224789)
Yerwada

Pune: Late Damodar Ravji Galande Hospital,
Contact: Dr Ujjwala Khristi (9730571404)
Shukrawar Peth

Pune: Dr Kotnis Health Centre,
Contact: Dr Asmita Bhoi (9850992960)
Shivajinagar

Pune: Late Jangalrao Kondiba Amrale Hospital,
Contact: Dr Aparna Gokhale (9823214103)

Government Authorised Hospitals

Mumbai
Sir J J Hospital
Ph: (022) 23735555, 23739031, 23760943, 23768400 / 23731144 / 5555 / 23701393 / 1366
Haffkine Institute
Ph: (022) 24160947, 24160961, 24160962

Chennai
King Institute of Preventive Medicine
Ph: (044) 22501520, 22501521 & 22501522
Government General Hospital
Ph: (044) 25305000, 25305723, 25305721, 25330300

Pune
Naidu Hospital
Ph: (020) 26058243
National Institute of Virology
Ph: (020) 26006290

Kolkata
D Hospital
Ph: (033) 23701252 Coimbatore
Coimbatore Government General Hospital
Ph: (0422) 2301393, 2301394, 2301395, 2301396

Hyderabad
Govt. General and Chest Diseases Hospital
Ph: (040) 23814939

Note from those who fought the flu: Don’t panic

Swine Flu: Top 20 Questions and Answers

2009-08-15T01:57:00.000-07:00

. Are swine flu symptoms different from normal human flu?

Up-to-date news on the A(H1N1) Swine flu virus

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They are similar. Swine flu is more likely to include diarrhea and vomiting, as well as the respiratory symptoms that come with typical seasonal human flu. Recent reports indicate that the A(H1N1) swine flu virus infects deeper into the lungs than typical seasonal human flu. Symptoms for swine flu include:

Chills
Cough
Fatigue
Diarrhea
Fever (greater than 100°F or 37.8°C)
Headache and body aches
Sore throat
Stuffy nose

For information on what swine flu is, please see our what is swine flu? article.

2. How would I know I had swine flu if I had some symptoms?

You wouldn't, neither would your doctor. A respiratory specimen would have to be taken within the first four to five days. The specimen would be sent to a lab, which in the USA would be a CDC lab.

Authorities and experts still do not know why symptoms were initially worse in Mexico than in the USA, Canada and other countries. However, recently reports worldwide are coming in of more severe symptoms.

The important point is to call your doctor if you think you have the flu. Prescription anti-viral drugs such as TamiFlu or Relenza can be called in by your doctor. Unless you are:

exceptionally ill with flu-like symptoms
chronically ill
immune-suppressed
quite elderly
or have a very young child, under age 2

It is best not to report to a hospital, as you could risk spreading the disease. Call your doctor and do what he tells you.

3. How long are infected people contagious?

An adult is usually contagious as long as they have symptoms - usually up to seven days following the beginning of the illness. The "shedding stage" of the virus is during the first 4-5 days of illness. Children can be considered contagious longer, up to 10 days. The initial incubation period is 24-48 hours.

4. What medications are there?

There is Tamiflu or Relenza - both have shown to be effective against these recently reported strains of swine flu. There are four anti-viral drugs altogether that are commonly used to treat various strains of flu.

5. Do these medicines prevent me from catching swine flu?

That is not currently advised. Preventative medication might be advisable for very special circumstances where a person had to expose themselves to potentially ill people during an epidemic (which we do not yet have here). Such people might include ER workers. An outbreak in a nursing home, for instance, might lead to protecting all the other residents with a drug like TamiFlu.

As the coverage time is limited, the preventative use of anti-viral medications is not advised for the general public.

Do not confuse OTC (over-the-counter) cold and flu preparations for anti-flu medications that you can only get with a prescription.

6. Do children and adults have the same symptoms?

Symptoms are similar. However, the signs of potentially life-threatening complications are not. Several countries are now reporting that younger adults and children are more likely to have more severe symptoms and complications. The CDC advises those with these symptoms to seek emergency care immediately:

Being extremely irritable
Bluish skin color
Rapid breathing or trouble breathing
Fever with a skin rash
Not drinking enough liquids
Not waking up or interacting

Emergency warning signs in adults are:

Confusion
Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
Severe or persistent vomiting
Sudden dizziness

7. Are there any swine flu vaccines?

Not currently, but we are on the verge of getting some out. Authorities, such as the CDC in the USA are considering adding the current swine flu strain to next year's vaccine. The UK has ordered 60 million vaccines and expects to receive many of them later this year.

8. If I took the swine flu vaccine in the swine flu scare during the 70s, would that protect me now? Will this year's flu shot offer me any additional protection?

Nobody knows whether protection may be full, partial, or not at all. The current swine flu strain also has avian flu components. The avian flu component is not from the deadly bird flu strain.

9. Can I catch it from pigs?

No, you can only catch this strain from other humans. It is a mutated pig virus.

10. Can I catch it from eating pork meat and pork products?

No. Swine flu is not transmitted by the food you consume - it is not a foodborne illness. All pork food products are safe to consume - as long as they are prepared properly. The virus dies at 160 degrees Fahrenheit.

Swine flu is transmitted in the same way normal flu is - through airborne droplets form a sick person's cough or sneeze

11. How does it cross from a pig to a human?

The swine virus mutates so that it can infect humans and be spread by humans.

12. Can it kill me?

Initially, in April 2009 when the outbreak started, symptoms appeared to be milder outside Mexico. However, this is not the case anymore. Several countries are reporting more cases of severe symptoms. The numbers are of concern, but not alarming. Health authorities throughout northern countries are expressing concern at what may happen during the coming winter when the number of flu cases rise.

13. Why the big concern if the regular flu kills 35,000 people a year, which is why we are all encouraged to get a flu shot?

This is a new flu strain that our bodies have not been exposed to before. The flu strains that the CDC creates a vaccine for each year all have the potential to cause great harm, especially in elderly, pediatric and chronically ill patients. This particular flu strain has struck seemingly healthy, young adults, with some resulting in death in a growing number of countries. It also appears to be quite contagious. We will know more about this strain in the coming months.

14. How is it different from avian (bird) flu?

Avian flu so far has had difficulty infecting humans unless they are exposed intensely to birds, because the virus has not mutated in a way that makes it transmissible by humans to other humans. This virus has origins genetically from both pigs and birds, and the big difference from the avian flu is that this swine virus can be transmitted readily from human to human.

15. Is this just another scare that will go away like bird flu?

Initially we were not sure whether this the A(H1N1) swine flu virus would become a global pandemic. The WHO (World Health Organization) declared it a pandemic in June 2009. The number of infected people worldwide is growing fast. It is still not clear how many deaths it may cause during the coming winter months, when flu epidemics typically occur. It is clearly not fizzling out.

16. Should I cancel my vacation to Mexico?

As people are now becoming infected in large numbers throughout the world, and infections are taking place mainly between people in their own country, cancelling any vacation to any country because of this virus is pointless.

17. What if I'm on a plane? Should I wear a mask?

Not necessary. The air on a plane is filtered. Transmission might occur if someone sitting close to you coughs or sneezes on you. The newer designs of aircraft airflow keep the air in a top-down flow, not forced air from front to back. However, if you do have a respiratory illness, it might be best not to travel.

18. How long does the germ live on surfaces, like on my desk if someone sneezes in my office?

Influenza virus survives only minutes on inanimate objects or hands, so these are very inefficient ways to spread the illness. Influenza is most easily spread by droplets that come into contact with our mucus membranes such as when someone coughs or sneezes in our faces. If we shake hands with an infected person who has just wiped their nose and then we rather quickly rub our nose or eyes with our own hand, then we could get the flu. So, good hand washing does play a role in diminishing the spread of the disease.

19. Other than hand washing and covering my mouth if I sneeze or cough, what can I do to take care of myself and others?

If you are ill, stay home. Control your sneezes and coughs. If you cough into your hand, remember the virus could be live on your hand at least for a few minutes, so wash your hands before touching anyone else. If you get symptoms suggesting the flu, call your doctor, who can call in a prescription for medication to treat the flu. Resist going to the doctor's office or a hospital ER for influenza symptoms unless you are seriously ill. You do not want to spread the disease to others.

20. What else can I do?

Keep in touch with the most recent CDC messages through the following links:

http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/investigation.htm

http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/general_info.htm

http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/whatsnew.htm

Go to the sources of verifiable information such as WHO (World Health Organization) or the CDC.

Most important, be alert, not panicked.

"There is a huge difference between preparedness and paranoia", says Dr. Robert Emery, occupational health expert at the UT School of Public Health at Houston. "Although we're dealing with a new strain of flu, a set of universally applicable preventive measures exist that can be employed right away by everyone to help stop the spread of this disease"

Proper hand hygiene:

There's a right way and useless way to wash hands and wash away micro-organisms. The object is to break down the protective membranes of germs, dislodge them from your hands and let them go down the drain. Plain soap in the right hands is strong stuff.

Lather well with a bar of soap or squirt a coin size of liquid soap in the palm of your hand.

Vigorously rub your hands together, soap up between your fingers, AND your wrists, front and back for 15 seconds. Sing the first chorus of any song you know and that'll take you through the 15 seconds.

Rinse under warm, RUNNING water. Remember, the object is to dislodge germs. The force of water is key.

Thoroughly dry your hands with a disposable towel or under the blower, again, rubbing your hands together.

Discard the towel.

If you're using alcohol-based gels as hand cleansers:

Put a dime-sized amount in one hand:

Vigorously rub your hands together and in between your fingers until the GEL IS DRY about 30 seconds.

DO NOT touch your face!

Once your hands are clean, do not touch your face, nose, eyes or lips.

Rubbing your eyes and nose provides a freeway for micro-organisms and good breeding ground once they've arrived.

Cover your cough

If you must cough or sneeze, cover your mouth with a tissue, or the inside of your elbow (not your hand as you may then contaminate surfaces when you touch them). Throw the tissue away in a waste basket. Do not leave discarded tissues on your desk or other surfaces.

Then, wash you hands thoroughly.

The throw-it-away part is essential.

Micro-organisms live a life span from a few seconds to days on inanimate surfaces such as desks, table tops, faucets…tissues. If your tissues are scattered on your coffee table, they then are in contact with community surfaces. Both the tissues and the surface it sits on can spread germs to the person who touches the coffee table.

If you begin to feel ill: feverish, achy, have a dry, painful cough, sore throat, go home from school or work and call your health care provider for further instructions.

If you feel sick with flu-like symptoms and you care for the very young or the very elderly or the chronically ill, inform your health care provider when you call their office.

How Effective Are Swine flu Masks>

2009-08-15T01:48:00.000-07:00

The first line of defense against the virus is face masks. Obviously, wearing a mask is better than not wearing anything at all. However, you would be ill advised to swear by the commonly available surgical masks that’s being distributed for free in government testing centers and sold in pharmaceutical shops. WHY, you ask? Since you have seen doctors wearing them, the must be safe. So let me ask you, do you have any idea why doctors wear those surgical masks? Are they wearing it to protect themselves from getting infected from the patient’s germs? Of course not! They wear masks to protect the patient from getting infected by their (doctor’s) germs. They work by preventing spit, snort, drool and other mucusy fluids released by the nose and mouth from becoming airborne.

Surgical masks to put it simply are completely ineffective when it comes to protecting the wearing against other people’s airborne germs.

What about the much hyped N95 (respirator) masks?

As per the federal center of disease control (CDC) “Very little is known about the benefits of wearing face masks or respirators to help control the spread of pandemic flu," – and this includes the N-95. The N-95 gets its name for its ability to filter off 95% of all airborne particles. N95 respirators are effective because they are airtight and can filter off airborne particles as small as 45 nanometers. The swine flu virus being twice as large at 80 -120 nanometers, can’t infect a person wearing an N-95 mask. Unfortunately, even if the N-95 masks were made available to the general public (which doesn’t seem likely, given our current state of affairs) won’t offer much protection to us. That’s because it’s very difficult to get the right (airtight) fit.

While surgical masks come in a single size which, can be worn by almost anyone, a person wearing an N-95 mask has to careful choose an approximately right size for his face. As long as he doesn’t get an airtight fit, he can’t consider himself safe. Moreover, unlike ordinary surgical masks which are pretty comfortable and can be worn for long periods of time, N-95 masks are hot, heavy and very uncomfortable. Even in an air conditioned room, it’s difficult to have an N-95 mask plastered to your face for more than a few minutes. Soon your breath will start feel heavy and moist. And this is when you are just sitting around doing nothing – in an air conditioned room. If you were to step out in the sun and do any amount of physical activity wearing the N-95, you will be forced to peel it off for your own sanity.

For any real protection, people need to invest in air-tight gas masks, which allow you to breathe comfortably while offering real protection.

FEW FACTS:

Not all high-quality masks are labeled N95. Health Canada said masks should offer protection equivalent to N95 to be considered effective. Such masks should:

Filter particles one micron in size or smaller.
Have a 95 per cent filter efficiency.
Provide a tight facial seal (less than 10% leak).

he report prepared for the Public Health Agency of Canada further concluded that:

N95 respirators protect against the inhalation of nasopharyngeal, tracheobronchial and alveolar sized particles.
Surgical masks worn by an infected person may play a role in the prevention of influenza transmission by reducing the amount of infectious material that is expelled into the environment.
Both surgical masks and N95 respirators offer a physical barrier to contact with contaminated hands and ballistic trajectory particles, such as particles expelled by a sneeze or a cough.
The efficiency of the filters of surgical masks to block penetration of alveolar and tracheobronchial sized particles is highly variable. When combined with the inability to ensure a sealed fit, these factors suggest that surgical masks offer no significant protection against the inhalation of alveolar and tracheobronchial sized particles.

Health officials say masks can help, but unless the person wearing the mask can ensure a sealed fit, the mask will offer no significant protection. This can be more of a problem for children or men with beards.

Recommended home remedies against H1NI flu

2009-08-15T01:43:00.000-07:00

Certain Home remedies recommended by Medical Practitioners - Preventive measures to develop the immune in your body to fight against H1NI flu

1) Inhale Clove Oil for one second everyday

2) Chew 1 Clove daily in the morning

3) Eat Raw Garlic, Onion, Ginger (1 to 5 gm) daily

4) Drink Hot Milk with 2gm of Turmeric in the night to gain antibodies in your system

5) Consume Plenty of Vitamin C fruits - Lemon, Orange, Amla etc

6) Gargle every morning with hotwater mixed with salt

7) H1N1 flu can also be kept away by using common herbs states Vaidya Pravin Hirpara. One can boost immunity by making a decoction (ukala) of basil (tulsi) leaves, jaggery (gur) and dried ginger (sunth). Tulsi has anti-viral properties and improves body's resistance to diseases.

8) NIV has advised putting few drops of Eucalyptus Oil (Nilgiri Oil) on your handkerchief or mask as an effective preventive measure against Swine Flu

9) Yog Guru Baba Ramdev has claimed that Swine Flu can be cured through ancient practice - Yoga. The Yog guru has stated that doing "Pranayam" regularly will make the heart strong that can prevent the virus from entering the body. He has also stated that there is a plant named "Gilloi" which can be both, a preventive measure as well as cure for Swine Flu as it makes the respiratory and immune system strong.

10) Dr. BN Singh, director of Homeopathy, UP says, "Swine flu is an influenza like illness, where primary symptoms are very much similar to those of influenza. Thus one can take Influnenzium 200 as a preventive medicine. Three doses each after 10 minutes within 24 hours can develop an immunity against H1N1 virus".

This is shared for your information.

Note - Though the above recommended measures are harmless, you may get them validated from your own medical consultant before use.

Swine Flu a (H1 N1) | Frequently Asked Questions

2009-08-15T01:35:00.001-07:00

What is the new influenza A(H1N1)?

How do people become infected with the virus?

What are the signs and symptoms of infection?

Why are we so worried about this flu when hundreds of thousands die every year from seasonal epidemics?

Most people experience mild illness and recover at home. When should someone seek medical care?

Is it safe to eat pork and pork products?

What can I do to protect myself from catching influenza A(H1N1)?

What about using a mask? What does WHO recommend?

How do I know if I have influenza A(H1N1)?

What should I do if I think I have the illness?

Should I take an antiviral now just in case I catch the new virus?

What about breastfeeding? Should I stop if I am ill?

When should someone seek medical care?

Should I go to work if I have the flu but am feeling OK?

What is the new influenza A(H1N1)?

This is a new influenza A(H1N1) virus that has never before circulated among humans. This virus is not related to previous or current human seasonal influenza viruses.

How do people become infected with the virus?

The virus is spread from person-to-person. It is transmitted as easily as the normal seasonal flu and can be passed to other people by exposure to infected droplets expelled by coughing or sneezing that can be inhaled, or that can contaminate hands or surfaces. To prevent spread, people who are ill should cover their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, stay home when they are unwell, clean their hands regularly, and keep some distance from healthy people, as much as possible. There are no known instances of people getting infected by exposure to pigs or other animals. The place of origin of the virus is unknown.

What are the signs and symptoms of infection?

Signs of influenza A(H1N1) are flu-like, including fever, cough, headache, muscle and joint pain, sore throat and runny nose, and sometimes vomiting and diarrhoea.

Why are we so worried about this flu when hundreds of thousands die every year from seasonal epidemics?

Seasonal influenza occurs every year and the viruses change each year - but many people have some immunity to the circulating virus which helps limit infections. Some countries also use seasonal influenza vaccines to reduce illness and deaths. But influenza A(H1N1) is a new virus and one to which most people have no or little immunity and, therefore, this virus could cause more infections than are seen with seasonal flu. WHO is working closely with manufacturers to expedite the development of a safe and effective vaccine but it will be some months before it is available. The new influenza A(H1N1) appears to be as contagious as seasonal influenza, and is spreading fast particularly among young people (from ages 10 to 45). The severity of the disease ranges from very mild symptoms to severe illnesses that can result in death. The majority of people who contract the virus experience the milder disease and recover without antiviral treatment or medical care. Of the more serious cases, more than half of hospitalized people had underlying health conditions or weak immune systems.

Most people experience mild illness and recover at home. When should someone seek medical care?

A person should seek medical care if they experience shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, or if a fever continues more than three days. For parents with a young child who is ill, seek medical care if a child has fast or labored breathing, continuing fever or convulsions (seizures). Supportive care at home - resting, drinking plenty of fluids and using a pain reliever for aches - is adequate for recovery in most cases. (A non-aspirin pain reliever should be used by children and young adults because of the risk of Reye's syndrome.)

Is it safe to eat pork and pork products?

Yes. influenza A(H1N1) has not been shown to be transmissible to people through eating properly handled and prepared pork (pig meat) or other products derived from pigs. The influenza A(H1N1) virus is killed by cooking temperatures of 160°F/70°C, corresponding to the general guidance for the preparation of pork and other meat.

What can I do to protect myself from catching influenza A(H1N1)?

The main route of transmission of the new influenza A(H1N1) virus seems to be similar to seasonal influenza, via droplets that are expelled by speaking, sneezing or coughing. You can prevent getting infected by avoiding close contact with people who show influenza-like symptoms (trying to maintain a distance of about 1 metre if possible) and taking the following measures:

· avoid touching your mouth and nose;

· clean hands thoroughly with soap and water, or cleanse them with an alcohol-based hand rub on a regular basis (especially if touching the mouth and nose, or surfaces that are potentially contaminated);

· avoid close contact with people who might be ill;

· reduce the time spent in crowded settings if possible;

· improve airflow in your living space by opening windows;

· practise good health habits including adequate sleep, eating nutritious food, and keeping physically active.

What about using a mask? What does WHO recommend?

If you are not sick you do not have to wear a mask. If you are caring for a sick person, you can wear a mask when you are in close contact with the ill person and dispose of it immediately after contact, and cleanse your hands thoroughly afterwards. If you are sick and must travel or be around others, cover your mouth and nose. Using a mask correctly in all situations is essential. Incorrect use actually increases the chance of spreading infection.

How do I know if I have influenza A(H1N1)?

You will not be able to tell the difference between seasonal flu and influenza A(H1N1) without medical help. Typical symptoms to watch for are similar to seasonal viruses and include fever, cough, headache, body aches, sore throat and runny nose. Only your medical practitioner and local health authority can confirm a case of influenza A(H1N1).

What should I do if I think I have the illness?

If you feel unwell, have high fever, cough or sore throat:

· stay at home and keep away from work, school or crowds;

· rest and take plenty of fluids;

· cover your nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing and, if using tissues, make sure you dispose of them carefully. Clean your hands immediately after with soap and water or cleanse them with an alcohol-based hand rub;

· if you do not have a tissue close by when you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth as much as possible with the crook of your elbow;

· use a mask to help you contain the spread of droplets when you are around others, but be sure to do so correctly;

· inform family and friends about your illness and try to avoid contact with other people;

· If possible, contact a health professional before traveling to a health facility to discuss whether a medical examination is necessary.

Should I take an antiviral now just in case I catch the new virus?

No. You should only take an antiviral, such as oseltamivir or zanamivir, if your health care provider advises you to do so. Individuals should not buy medicines to prevent or fight this new influenza without a prescription, and they should exercise caution in buying antivirals over the Internet.

What about breastfeeding? Should I stop if I am ill?

No, not unless your health care provider advises it. Studies on other influenza infections show that breastfeeding is most likely protective for babies - it passes on helpful maternal immunities and lowers the risk of respiratory disease. Breastfeeding provides the best overall nutrition for babies and increases their defense factors to fight illness.

When should someone seek medical care?

Should I go to work if I have the flu but am feeling OK?

No. Whether you have influenza A(H1N1) or a seasonal influenza, you should stay home and away from work through the duration of your symptoms. This is a precaution that can protect your work colleagues and others.

Travel advisory from WHO

2009-08-15T01:34:00.000-07:00

Is it safe to travel?

Yes. WHO is not recommending travel restrictions related to the outbreak of the influenza A(H1N1) virus. Today, global travel is commonplace and large numbers of people move around the world for business and leisure. Limiting travel and imposing travel restrictions would have very little effect on stopping the virus from spreading, but would be highly disruptive to the global community. Influenza A(H1N1) has already been confirmed in many parts of the world. The global response now focuses on minimizing the impact of the virus through the rapid identification of cases, and providing patients with appropriate medical care, rather than on stopping its spread internationally. Although identifying signs and symptoms of influenza in travellers can help track the path of the outbreak, it will not reduce the spread of influenza, as the virus can be transmitted from person to person before the onset of symptoms. Scientific research based on mathematical modelling shows that restricting travel would be of limited or no benefit in stopping the spread of disease. Historical records of previous influenza pandemics, as well as experience with SARS, validate this.

Does WHO recommend screenings at country entry and exit points to detect if ill people are travelling?

No. We do not believe entry and exit screenings would work to reduce the spread of this disease. However country-level measures to respond to a public health risk are the decision of national authorities, under the International Health Regulations 2005. Countries that adopt measures that significantly interfere with international traffic (e.g. delaying an airplane passenger for more than 24 hours, or refusing country entry or departure to a traveller) must provide WHO with the public health reasoning and evidence for their actions. WHO will follow up with all of its Member countries on such matters. Travellers should always be treated with dignity and respect for their human rights.

How can I protect myself from influenza A(H1N1) when I am travelling?

People who are ill should delay travel plans. Returning travellers who become ill should contact their health care provider. Travellers can protect themselves and others by following simple prevention practices that apply while travelling and in daily life.

Steps to Lessen the Spread of Flu in the Home | how to handwash

2009-08-15T01:33:00.000-07:00

When providing care to a household member who is sick with influenza, the most important ways to protect yourself and others who are not sick are to:

· keep the sick person away from other people as much as possible (see “placement of the sick person”)

· remind the sick person to cover their coughs, and clean their hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub often, especially after coughing and/or sneezing.

· have everyone in the household clean their hands often, using soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub

Placement of the sick person:

· Keep the sick person in a room separate from the common areas of the house. (For example, a spare bedroom with its own bathroom, if that’s possible.) Keep the sickroom door closed.

· Unless necessary for medical care, persons with the flu should not leave the home when they have a fever or during the time that they are most likely to spread their infection to others

· If persons with the flu need to leave the home (for example, for medical care), they should cover their nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing and wear a loose-fitting (surgical) mask if available.

· Have the sick person wear a surgical mask if they need to be in a common area of the house near other persons.

· If possible, sick persons should use a separate bathroom. This bathroom should be cleaned daily with household disinfectant

Protect other persons in the home:

· The sick person should not have visitors other than caregivers. A phone call is safer than a visit.

· If possible, have only one adult in the home take care of the sick person.

· Avoid having pregnant women care for the sick person. (Pregnant women are at increased risk of influenza-related complications and immunity can be suppressed during pregnancy).

· All persons in the household should clean their hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub frequently, including after every contact with the sick person or the person’s room or bathroom.

· Use paper towels for drying hands after hand washing or dedicate cloth towels to each person in the household. For example, have different colored towels for each person.

· If possible, consideration should be given to maintaining good ventilation in shared household areas (e.g., keeping windows open in restrooms, kitchen, bathroom, etc.).

If you are the caregiver:

· Avoid being face-to-face with the sick person. · When holding small children who are sick, place their chin on your shoulder so that they will not cough in your face. · Clean your hands with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand rub after you touch the sick person or handle used tissues, or laundry. · Talk to your Doctor about taking antiviral medication to prevent the caregiver from getting the flu. · Monitor yourself and household members for flu symptoms and the local H1N1 Command Center if the symptoms occur.

Household Cleaning, Laundry, and Waste Disposal:

· Throw away tissues and other disposable items used by the sick person in the trash. Wash your hands after touching used tissues and similar waste. · Keep surfaces (especially bedside tables, surfaces in the bathroom, and toys for children) clean by wiping them down with a household disinfectant according to directions on the product label. · Linens, eating utensils, and dishes belonging to those who are sick do not need to be cleaned separately, but importantly these items should not be shared without washing thoroughly first. · Wash linens (such as bed sheets and towels) by using household laundry soap and tumble dry on a hot setting. Avoid “hugging” laundry prior to washing it to prevent contaminating yourself. Clean your hands with soap and water or alcohol-based hand rub right after handling dirty laundry. · Eating utensils should be washed either in a dishwasher or by hand with water and soap.

H1N1 Swine Flu | Symptoms of Swine Flu

2009-08-15T01:27:00.000-07:00

Symptoms In children, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:

· Fast breathing or trouble breathing
· Bluish or gray skin color
· Not drinking enough fluids
· Severe or persistent vomiting
· Not waking up or not interacting
· Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
· Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough

In adults, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:

· Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
· Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
· Sudden dizziness
· Confusion
· Severe or persistent vomiting
· Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough

c| Swine Flu

2009-08-15T01:24:00.000-07:00

Influenza H1N1 List of State Nodal Officers and contact details of Control Room

2009-08-15T01:15:00.001-07:00

STATE	CONTROL ROOM (ADD. & CONTACT)	NODAL OFFICER
ANDHRA PRADESH	Office of The Addl. Director (Health Services), Hyderabad. 040-24656852(T) [24x7]	Dr Ramswarup [09989923781]
ARUNACHAL PRADESH	SSU IDSP, Directorate of Health Services, Naharlagun, Arunachal Pradesh. Tel: 0360-2245460 Telefax:: 0360-2244271 (During office hours)	Dr.L.Jampa [09436055743] [24x7]
ASSAM	Office of the Director (Health Services), Guwahati. 0361-2235577 0361-2261630 0361-2261089 [24x7]	Dr Doley 0361-2642008 09854066560
BIHAR	Office of the Executive Director, State Health Society, Sheikhpura, Patna. 0612-2280562 0612-2281232 0612-2290322(F) [24x7]	Mr. Santosh Mathew (IAS) Dr D K Gupta (Addl.Nodal officer)- 09430057795 Control Room In-charge (Dr BK Singh: 9470003023)
CHHATISHGARH	State Surveillance Unit (IDSP), Directorate Health services, Old Nurses Hostel, DKS Mantralya Campus,Raipur 0771-2220011 [24x7]	Dr T K Agarwal (Deputy Director, Epidemic)-Nodal officer: 09926624162 Dr S N M Murti (Addl.N.O) 09425564418
GUJARAT	Office of Dy.Director (Epid) Commisionerate of Health Services Block No:5, Dr.Jivaraj Mehta Bhawan, Old Sachivalaya , Ahmedabad, Gujarat Tel: 079-23253334 Fax: 079-23250818 [24X7]	Dr.S.J.Gandhi [09825342899]
GOA	Call Centre: 0832- 2458458 [24X7]	Dr.Tamba (09822123801)
HIMACHAL PRADESH	IDSP Cell, Directorate of Health Services, Kasumti, Shimla-9 Tel/Fax: 0177-2628046 [ during office hours]	Dr.Vinod Mehta(09418163500) [24x7]
HARYANA	Office of the Director (Health Services),Sector-6, Panchkula 0172-2587346 [During office hours]	Dr.Aparajita Sondh (Nodal Officer) 09417931024 [24x7]
JAMMU-KASHMIR	Office of DHS, Srinagar, J& K Tel/Fax. No (0194) 2452697 (main) 2452052,2454706,2430141 (24x7)	Dr.M.Ahmed (09419012355) Dr.Bashir Ahmed Dar (Addl.N.O) (09419017716)
JHARKHAND	RIMS, RANCHI Chamber of Dr. A. K. Mathur (HOD Medicine) (09431176496) (RIMS acting as Control Room)	Dr C.B Sharma (094311740820 Dr.Pradeep Baski (09431102461)
KERALA	Office of Addl.DHS (Public Health), Near Govt. General Hospital Trivandrum TF:(0471) 2466828 [24X7]	Dr. Amar 09447451846 DR. SHAUKAT ALI (Joint Director,NICD)-09447702444 Dr K K Mohammad-09447327569
KARNATAKA	Office of the Director (Health and Family Welfare),Anand Rao Circle, Bangalore-9 Phone no: 080-1056 [24X7]	Dr.Chelluraj 09901060584 Dr.Vasudev Murthi 09880024329

MAHARASHTRA
Mumbai	Room no.137,First Floor, Swasthaya Bhawan,Mumbai. 022-22029070 022-22025830 [24X7]	Dr. Gawande (09420711426) Dr Awate-09423337556
Pune	Office of the Joint Director (Health Services), Central Building , Pune 020-26124299 [24X7]	Dr. Desai-09822429266 Dr. Suresh Bohatre 09881364656
MEGHALAYA	Office of DHS, Medical Institutions Nokrek Bldg. 3^rd Secretariat, Shillong, Meghalaya TF:(0364)2506498 [Office hour only] Control room no 0364-2505842 Civil hospital Shilling [24x7]	Dr.R.R.Lanong, (09436102763)
MANIPUR	Medical Directorate, Office of DHS, Manipur Room no-23 Lamphelpat Manipur-795004 0385-2411668 (9am-6pm)	Dr Bhubon Chandra [09436021607]
MADHYA PRADESH	State Surveillance Unit, Directorate Health Services, Satpura Bhavan, Bhopal 0755-4094192(TF) [Office hours only]	Dr. B N Chauhan 09826282249
MIZORAM	Civil hospital Aizwal 0389-2322318 102	Dr Sangawalar 0389-2313721
NAGALAND	SSU IDSP, Directorate of Health Services& FW, T.R .Hill, KOHIMA-797001. Tel:(0370)2245016 [Office hours only]	Dr.Kebichusa (09436000463) [24x7]
ORISSA	State Surveillance Unit, Director of Health Services, Heads of the Department Buildings, Bhubaneshwar. 0674-2390466 (TF) [24x7]	Dr. V. Patnaik 0674-2390466
PUNJAB	Pariwar Kalyan Bhawan, Sector-34A, Chandigarh. Tel:(0172) 2621506	Dr. Deepak Bhatia 09814302403 [24x7] 0172-2621506(0)/0172-2620234(Fax)
RAJASTHAN	Office of the Director (Public Health), Swasthaya Bhawan, Jaipur. 0141-2225624 0141-2224831(F) [	Mr. R K Meena ,IAS, Principal Sect.(Health)- Nodal Officer Dr. O P Gupta(Addl.Nodal Officer)-0141-2229858 09829333936
SIKKIM	SSU IDSP, Health & F.W. Govt. of Sikkim 03592-204199 [Office hours only]	Dr.Y.D.Chingappa (09832079576) Tel:(03592)204199
TRIPURA	DHS building PN Building Gurkha Basti Agartala Tel/Fax:(0381) 2215879	Dr P Chatterjee (09436120711) Dr.R.K. Dhar (09436137652)
TAMILNADU	Office of the Director (Public Health &Preventive Medicine), Central Malaria Laboratory, 359,Annasalai,Chennai-6 044-24321569 (TF) [24X7]	DR. Elango, DHS, (09940610123)
UTTARAKHAND	Office of DHS, IDSP, 107,Chander Nagar, Dehradun TF: 0135-2721792 0135-2729897 [Office Hours only]	Dr.Pankaj Jain(09412969502) [24x7]
UTTAR PRADESH	Swasthaya Bhawan,Luknow Control Room No-Tel:(0522)2616482 Fax:(0522)2622819 [24X7]	Dr Pyaremohan Srivastava 0522-2629106(TF) (09415181629)
WEST BENGAL	Chamber of Joint Director (Health Services), Swasthaya Bhawan, Sector-5,GN Block, Kolkata-91 (033)-23571192 [ 10 am to 7 pm on working days] [11 am to 4:30 pm on Saturday and Holidays]	Dr.Bhaskar Bhattacharya, Jt.DHS 033-23330180 (09831187818)
ANDAMAN AND NICOBAR	G.B.Pant Hospital, Port Blair Tel:03192-230622,233473	Dr.Abhijit Roy,Dy.Director (H) (09474269315) T/F: (03192-232797)
CHANDIGARH	Govt. Multispecialty Hospital, Sector-16, Chandigarh. Call Centre:102 Tel:(0172) 2700255	Mr. H.C. Gera (09988212139) (0172)-2740408
DADRA AND NAGAR HAVELI	Office of DHS, Silvassa. T/F (0260)2642061,2641759 CONTROL ROOM NO- 0260-2642120	Dr.L.M.Patra DHS (09426117593)
DAMAN AND DIU	CHC, Daman. Tel:(0260)2230080 Fax:(0260)2230570 [24x7]	Dr.B.Hansraj (Daman) (09825142600) Dr.Das (Silvassa) Tel:0260-2642961,26422120
DELHI	DHS Office Tel:22307145 (24X7)	Dr.R.P.Vashist (09212222456)/22305657(O),23646049(O),23646173(F)
LAKSHADWEEP	Office of DHS, Tel:(04896)262316 [Office hours only]	Dr.K P Hamza Koya (DHS)-Nodal officer(09496429027,04896-262113) 04896-262089,04896-262209(F) Dr K. Attakoya (Addl.Nodal officer)-04896-262109,262317
PUDUCHERRY	Call Centre:(24X7) Tel: (0413)1070 (0413)1077	Dr.G.S.Naidu (09443729783) Tel:(0413)2249357

List of Influenza A H1N1 affected countries as on 16.6.2009

2009-08-15T01:14:00.000-07:00

List of Influenza A H1N1 affected countries as on 16.6.2009

S.No	Name of the Country
1.	Argentina
2.	Australia
3.	Austria
4.	Bahamas
5.	Bahrain
6.	Barbados
7.	Belgium
8.	Bolivia
9.	Brazil
10.	Bulgaria
11.	Canada
12.	Cayman Islands, UKOT
13.	Chile
14.	China
15.	Colombia
16.	Costa Rica
17.	Cuba
18.	Cyprus
19.	Czech Republic
20.	Denmark
21.	Dominica
22.	Dominican Republic
23.	Ecuador
24.	Egypt
25.	El Salvador
26.	Estonia
27.	Finland
28.	France
29.	Germany
30.	Greece
31.	Guatemala
32.	Honduras
33.	Hungary
34.	Iceland
35.	India
36.	Ireland
37.	Israel
38.	Italy
39.	Jamaica
40.	Japan
41.	Korea, Republic of
42.	Kuwait
43.	Lebanon
44.	Luxembourg
45.	Malaysia
46.	Mexico
47.	Netherlands
48.	New Zealand
49.	Nicaragua
50.	Norway
51.	Panama
52.	Paraguay
53.	Peru
54.	Philippines
55.	Poland
56.	Portugal
57.	Romania
58.	Russia
59.	Saudi Arabia
60.	Singapore
61.	Slovakia
62.	Spain
63.	Sweden
64.	Switzerland
65.	Thailand
66.	Trinidad and Tobago
67.	Turkey
68.	Ukraine
69.	United Arab Emirates
70.	United Kingdom
71.	United States of America
72.	Uruguay
73.	Venezuela
74.	Viet Nam
75.	West Bank and Gaza Strip

GUIDELINES FOR SCHOOLS/COLLEGES/INSTITUTIONS ON INFLUENZA A/H1N1

2009-08-15T01:09:00.000-07:00

There have been some cases of Influenza A H1N1 virus among students and staff in certain schools, primarily in Delhi and Maharashtra. There has been considerable speculation over the need for closure of schools to control the outbreak. This matter has been considered by the Joint Monitoring Group in the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. All schools and colleges are advised to observe the following guidelines for managing cases of infection of Influenza AH1N1.

(i) Any student or staff member showing flu like symptoms such as fever, cough, running nose and difficulty in breathing should be allowed to stay at home for a period of 7 to 10 days.

(ii) Educational institutions should not insist on production of medical certificate by the student/staff.

(iii) Educational institutions should monitor the health status of such students/staff who might have come in contact with a suspected case of Influenza AH1N1 to see whether they develop flu like symptoms. In case they do so, they should be allowed to stay home, as outlined at (i) above

(iv) In case of students staying in Hostels, the educational institutions would not only monitor the health status of the students, but also that of care providers. It has to be ensured that the care providers wear face mask and wash hands regularly. It might not be advisable to send the boarders back to home, as it would spread infection further.

(v) Educational institutions are further encouraged to report such cases to local health officers for further monitoring.

(vi) Given the current magnitude of the spread of AH1N1 infection and the fact that the current virus is fairly mild, closure of educational institutions on account of any student/staff member falling ill with flu like symptoms is not recommended.

(vii) In the first place, the schools should discourage the excursions of the students to the affected countries.

(viii) In case if the students had proceeded to affected countries on unavoidable tours, then on their return, if some students show flu like symptoms of fever, sore- throat , cough , body ache, running nose, difficulty breathing etc. they should be advised to abstain from attending school and be allowed to stay at home for a period of 7 to 10 days.

Guidelines for testing of persons with flu like symptoms reporting at hospitals notified for influenza H1N1

2009-08-15T01:04:00.001-07:00

So far, the present guidelines stipulate that a person suspected of influenza A H1N1 need to be referred to an identified govt. health facility. He/she needs to be kept in an isolation facility in that hospital and if found positive, is treated accordingly.

In order to make the testing facility for H1N1 more accessible at large and due to the onset of the Influenza season in the country, it has been decided to revise the existing guidelines.

Under the new guidelines, any person with flu like symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, cold, running nose etc. should go to a designated Government facility for giving his/her sample for testing for the H1N1 virus. After clinical assessment, the designated medical officer would decide on the need for testing. Except for cases that are severe, the patient would be allowed to go home (This was not allowed under the existing guidelines).

The sample of the suspect case would be collected and sent to the notified laboratory for testing. If tested as positive for H1N1 and in case the symptoms are mild, the patient would be informed and given the option of admission into the hospital or isolation and treatment at his own home.

In case the patient opts for home isolation and treatment, he/she would be provided with detailed guidelines / safety measures to be strictly adhered to by the entire household of the patient. He/ she would have to provide full contact details of his entire household. The house hold and social contacts would be provided with the preventive treatment.

Notwithstanding the above guidelines, the decision of the doctor of the notified hospital about admitting the patient would be final.

In case the test is negative, the patient will accordingly be informed.

These guidelines have been issued by the Government in public interest and shall be reviewed from time to time depending on the spread of the pandemic and its severity in the country. These guidelines would however not apply to passengers who are identified through screening at the points of entry. The existing policy of isolating passengers with flu like symptoms would continue.

Travel Advice

2009-08-15T01:02:00.001-07:00

Novel H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu) and You

2009-08-15T00:48:00.000-07:00

Novel H1N1 Flu

What is novel H1N1 (swine flu)?

Novel H1N1 (referred to as “swine flu” early on) is a new influenza virus causing illness in people. This new virus was first detected in people in the United States in April 2009. This virus is spreading from person-to-person worldwide, probably in much the same way that regular seasonal influenza viruses spread. On June 11, 2009, the World Health Organization (WHO) signaled that a pandemic of novel H1N1 flu was underway.

Why is novel H1N1 virus sometimes called “swine flu”?

This virus was originally referred to as “swine flu” because laboratory testing showed that many of the genes in this new virus were very similar to influenza viruses that normally occur in pigs (swine) in North America. But further study has shown that this new virus is very different from what normally circulates in North American pigs. It has two genes from flu viruses that normally circulate in pigs in Europe and Asia and bird (avian) genes and human genes. Scientists call this a "quadruple reassortant" virus.

Novel H1N1 Flu in Humans

Are there human infections with novel H1N1 virus in the U.S.?

Yes. Human infections with the new H1N1 virus are ongoing in the United States. Most people who have become ill with this new virus have recovered without requiring medical treatment.

CDC routinely works with states to collect, compile and analyze information about influenza, and has done the same for the new H1N1 virus since the beginning of the outbreak. This information is presented in a weekly report, called FluView.

Is novel H1N1 virus contagious?

CDC has determined that novel H1N1 virus is contagious and is spreading from human to human.

How does novel H1N1 virus spread?

Spread of novel H1N1 virus is thought to occur in the same way that seasonal flu spreads. Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing by people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something – such as a surface or object – with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.

What are the signs and symptoms of this virus in people?

The symptoms of novel H1N1 flu virus in people include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. A significant number of people who have been infected with this virus also have reported diarrhea and vomiting. Severe illnesses and death has occurred as a result of illness associated with this virus.

How severe is illness associated with novel H1N1 flu virus?

Illness with the new H1N1 virus has ranged from mild to severe. While most people who have been sick have recovered without needing medical treatment, hospitalizations and deaths from infection with this virus have occurred.

In seasonal flu, certain people are at “high risk” of serious complications. This includes people 65 years and older, children younger than five years old, pregnant women, and people of any age with certain chronic medical conditions. About 70 percent of people who have been hospitalized with this novel H1N1 virus have had one or more medical conditions previously recognized as placing people at “high risk” of serious seasonal flu-related complications. This includes pregnancy, diabetes, heart disease, asthma and kidney disease.

One thing that appears to be different from seasonal influenza is that adults older than 64 years do not yet appear to be at increased risk of novel H1N1-related complications thus far. CDC laboratory studies have shown that no children and very few adults younger than 60 years old have existing antibody to novel H1N1 flu virus; however, about one-third of adults older than 60 may have antibodies against this virus. It is unknown how much, if any, protection may be afforded against novel H1N1 flu by any existing antibody.

How does novel H1N1 flu compare to seasonal flu in terms of its severity and infection rates?

With seasonal flu, we know that seasons vary in terms of timing, duration and severity. Seasonal influenza can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. Each year, in the United States, on average 36,000 people die from flu-related complications and more than 200,000 people are hospitalized from flu-related causes. Of those hospitalized, 20,000 are children younger than 5 years old. Over 90% of deaths and about 60 percent of hospitalization occur in people older than 65.

When the novel H1N1 outbreak was first detected in mid-April 2009, CDC began working with states to collect, compile and analyze information regarding the novel H1N1 flu outbreak, including the numbers of confirmed and probable cases and the ages of these people. The information analyzed by CDC supports the conclusion that novel H1N1 flu has caused greater disease burden in people younger than 25 years of age than older people. At this time, there are few cases and few deaths reported in people older than 64 years old, which is unusual when compared with seasonal flu. However, pregnancy and other previously recognized high risk medical conditions from seasonal influenza appear to be associated with increased risk of complications from this novel H1N1. These underlying conditions include asthma, diabetes, suppressed immune systems, heart disease, kidney disease, neurocognitive and neuromuscular disorders and pregnancy.

How long can an infected person spread this virus to others?

People infected with seasonal and novel H1N1 flu shed virus and may be able to infect others from 1 day before getting sick to 5 to 7 days after. This can be longer in some people, especially children and people with weakened immune systems and in people infected with the new H1N1 virus.

Prevention & Treatment

What can I do to protect myself from getting sick?

There is no vaccine available right now to protect against novel H1N1 virus. However, a novel H1N1 vaccine is currently in production and may be ready for the public in the fall. As always, a vaccine will be available to protect against seasonal influenza

There are everyday actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza.

Take these everyday steps to protect your health:

Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners* are also effective.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
If you are sick with flu-like illness, CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Your fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.) Keep away from others as much as possible to keep from making others sick.

Other important actions that you can take are:

Follow public health advice regarding school closures, avoiding crowds and other social distancing measures.
Be prepared in case you get sick and need to stay home for a week or so; a supply of over-the-counter medicines, alcohol-based hand rubs,* tissues and other related items might could be useful and help avoid the need to make trips out in public while you are sick and contagious

What is the best way to keep from spreading the virus through coughing or sneezing?

If you are sick with flu-like illness, CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Your fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.)

Keep away from others as much as possible. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Put your used tissue in the waste basket. Then, clean your hands, and do so every time you cough or sneeze.

If I have a family member at home who is sick with novel H1N1 flu, should I go to work?

Employees who are well but who have an ill family member at home with novel H1N1 flu can go to work as usual. These employees should monitor their health every day, and take everyday precautions including washing their hands often with soap and water, especially after they cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.* If they become ill, they should notify their supervisor and stay home. Employees who have an underlying medical condition or who are pregnant should call their health care provider for advice, because they might need to receive influenza antiviral drugs to prevent illness. For more information please see General Business and Workplace Guidance for the Prevention of Novel Influenza A (H1N1) Flu in Workers.

What is the best technique for washing my hands to avoid getting the flu?

Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. Wash with soap and water or clean with alcohol-based hand cleaner*. CDC recommends that when you wash your hands -- with soap and warm water -- that you wash for 15 to 20 seconds. When soap and water are not available, alcohol-based disposable hand wipes or gel sanitizers may be used. You can find them in most supermarkets and drugstores. If using gel, rub your hands until the gel is dry. The gel doesn't need water to work; the alcohol in it kills the germs on your hands.

What should I do if I get sick?

If you live in areas where people have been identified with novel H1N1 flu and become ill with influenza-like symptoms, including fever, body aches, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, nausea, or vomiting or diarrhea, you should stay home and avoid contact with other people. CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Your fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.) Stay away from others as much as possible to keep from making others sick.Staying at home means that you should not leave your home except to seek medical care. This means avoiding normal activities, including work, school, travel, shopping, social events, and public gatherings.

If you have severe illness or you are at high risk for flu complications, contact your health care provider or seek medical care. Your health care provider will determine whether flu testing or treatment is needed.

If you become ill and experience any of the following warning signs, seek emergency medical care.

In children, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:

Fast breathing or trouble breathing
Bluish or gray skin color
Not drinking enough fluids
Severe or persistent vomiting
Not waking up or not interacting
Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough

In adults, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:

Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
Sudden dizziness
Confusion
Severe or persistent vomiting
Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough

Are there medicines to treat novel H1N1 infection?

Yes. CDC recommends the use of oseltamivir or zanamivir for the treatment and/or prevention of infection with novel H1N1 flu virus. Antiviral drugs are prescription medicines (pills, liquid or an inhaled powder) that fight against the flu by keeping flu viruses from reproducing in your body. If you get sick, antiviral drugs can make your illness milder and make you feel better faster. They may also prevent serious flu complications. During the current pandemic, the priority use for influenza antiviral drugs during is to treat severe influenza illness (for example hospitalized patients) and people who are sick who have a condition that places them at high risk for serious flu-related complications.

What is CDC’s recommendation regarding "swine flu parties"?

"Swine flu parties" are gatherings during which people have close contact with a person who has novel H1N1 flu in order to become infected with the virus. The intent of these parties is for a person to become infected with what for many people has been a mild disease, in the hope of having natural immunity novel H1N1 flu virus that might circulate later and cause more severe disease.

CDC does not recommend "swine flu parties" as a way to protect against novel H1N1 flu in the future. While the disease seen in the current novel H1N1 flu outbreak has been mild for many people, it has been severe and even fatal for others. There is no way to predict with certainty what the outcome will be for an individual or, equally important, for others to whom the intentionally infected person may spread the virus.

CDC recommends that people with novel H1N1 flu avoid contact with others as much as possible. If you are sick with flu-like illness, CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Your fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.) Stay away from others as much as possible to keep from making others sick.

Contamination & Cleaning

How long can influenza virus remain viable on objects (such as books and doorknobs)?

Studies have shown that influenza virus can survive on environmental surfaces and can infect a person for 2 to 8 hours after being deposited on the surface.

What kills influenza virus?

Influenza virus is destroyed by heat (167-212°F [75-100°C]). In addition, several chemical germicides, including chlorine, hydrogen peroxide, detergents (soap), iodophors (iodine-based antiseptics), and alcohols are effective against human influenza viruses if used in proper concentration for a sufficient length of time. For example, wipes or gels with alcohol in them can be used to clean hands. The gels should be rubbed into hands until they are dry.

*What if soap and water are not available and alcohol-based products are not allowed in my facility?

Though the scientific evidence is not as extensive as that on hand washing and alcohol-based sanitizers, other hand sanitizers that do not contain alcohol may be useful for killing flu germs on hands.

What surfaces are most likely to be sources of contamination?

Germs can be spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth. Droplets from a cough or sneeze of an infected person move through the air. Germs can be spread when a person touches respiratory droplets from another person on a surface like a desk, for example, and then touches their own eyes, mouth or nose before washing their hands.

How should waste disposal be handled to prevent the spread of influenza virus?

To prevent the spread of influenza virus, it is recommended that tissues and other disposable items used by an infected person be thrown in the trash. Additionally, persons should wash their hands with soap and water after touching used tissues and similar waste.

What household cleaning should be done to prevent the spread of influenza virus?

To prevent the spread of influenza virus it is important to keep surfaces (especially bedside tables, surfaces in the bathroom, kitchen counters and toys for children) clean by wiping them down with a household disinfectant according to directions on the product label.

How should linens, eating utensils and dishes of persons infected with influenza virus be handled?

Linens, eating utensils, and dishes belonging to those who are sick do not need to be cleaned separately, but importantly these items should not be shared without washing thoroughly first.

Linens (such as bed sheets and towels) should be washed by using household laundry soap and tumbled dry on a hot setting. Individuals should avoid “hugging” laundry prior to washing it to prevent contaminating themselves. Individuals should wash their hands with soap and water or alcohol-based hand rub immediately after handling dirty laundry.

Eating utensils should be washed either in a dishwasher or by hand with water and soap.

Exposures Not Thought to Spread Novel H1N1 Flu

Can I get infected with novel H1N1 virus from eating or preparing pork?

No. Novel H1N1 viruses are not spread by food. You cannot get infected with novel HIN1 virus from eating pork or pork products. Eating properly handled and cooked pork products is safe.

Is there a risk from drinking water?

Tap water that has been treated by conventional disinfection processes does not likely pose a risk for transmission of influenza viruses. Current drinking water treatment regulations provide a high degree of protection from viruses. No research has been completed on the susceptibility of novel H1N1 flu virus to conventional drinking water treatment processes. However, recent studies have demonstrated that free chlorine levels typically used in drinking water treatment are adequate to inactivate highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza. It is likely that other influenza viruses such as novel H1N1 would also be similarly inactivated by chlorination. To date, there have been no documented human cases of influenza caused by exposure to influenza-contaminated drinking water.

Can novel H1N1 flu virus be spread through water in swimming pools, spas, water parks, interactive fountains, and other treated recreational water venues?

Influenza viruses infect the human upper respiratory tract. There has never been a documented case of influenza virus infection associated with water exposure. Recreational water that has been treated at CDC recommended disinfectant levels does not likely pose a risk for transmission of influenza viruses. No research has been completed on the susceptibility of novel H1N1 influenza virus to chlorine and other disinfectants used in swimming pools, spas, water parks, interactive fountains, and other treated recreational venues. However, recent studies have demonstrated that free chlorine levels recommended by CDC (1–3 parts per million [ppm or mg/L] for pools and 2–5 ppm for spas) are adequate to disinfect avian influenza A (H5N1) virus. It is likely that other influenza viruses such as novel H1N1 virus would also be similarly disinfected by chlorine.

Can novel H1N1 influenza virus be spread at recreational water venues outside of the water?

Yes, recreational water venues are no different than any other group setting. The spread of this novel H1N1 flu is thought to be happening in the same way that seasonal flu spreads. Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing of people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.

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When providing care to a household member who is sick with influenza, the most important ways to protect yourself and others who are not sick are to:

Placement of the sick person:

Protect other persons in the home:

If you are the caregiver:

Household Cleaning, Laundry, and Waste Disposal:

H1N1 Swine Flu | Symptoms of Swine Flu

Symptoms In children, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:

· Fast breathing or trouble breathing· Bluish or gray skin color· Not drinking enough fluids· Severe or persistent vomiting· Not waking up or not interacting· Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held· Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough

In adults, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:

· Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath· Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen· Sudden dizziness· Confusion· Severe or persistent vomiting· Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough

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Contamination & Cleaning

Exposures Not Thought to Spread Novel H1N1 Flu

· Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
· Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
· Sudden dizziness
· Confusion
· Severe or persistent vomiting
· Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough