Healthcare

How to avoid swine flu

This year, Swine Flu has been in most people’s minds, as experts try and monitor the risk of a worldwide pandemic.

So far, reports Medicare International, the information indicates that the H1N1 strain carries a lower risk of fatality and serious long term illness than bird flu for example, as to be caught, it requires direct contact with infected humans. However, it is still early days and new information on the virus is emerging all the time as genetic tests are carried out. One thing is for sure, basic hygiene will substantially reduce your risk of catching this flu virus, wherever you live.

 David Pryor, Senior Executive Director at Medicare International, advises, "If people do find themselves falling ill abroad and are worried, it is vital they go to a local doctor and ask for tests. This kind of process is routine and will be covered by most international medical insurance policies.”

 Those who gain treatment in the early stages are able to use two drugs, namely Tamiflu and Rilenza, which seem to treat the virus effectively. The initial symptoms of Swine Flu are similar to normal flu, namely a fever, cough, sore throat, aches, chills and fatigue.

 Follow these basic personal hygiene rules in order to minimise your risk of infection.

• Wash hands regularly with soap
• Try to avoid touching your face with your hands, unless clean
• Blow your nose into a clean tissue and dispose of it immediately
• Clean hard surfaces such as door handles regularly
• Seek medical attention initially by telephoning your doctor if you start to show flu symptoms