Swine Flu Explained in Simple Terms
Swine Flu Explained in Simple Terms
You may have heard a lot about Swine Flu via the media in recent times. The media have perhaps been enjoying the reporting on this latest epidemic with a little too much glee. Whatever your opinion about how they have handled it, it is safe to say that the Swine Flu affects everyone to some extent. Even if you do not have it (and many people have it without realising it), there is every chance you will have heard of a colleague or friend who has suffered form it or some of its complications.
The symptoms are easily recognisable. First of all, you will notice a high temperature that comes on very quickly. This will of course be very noticeable for many adults. It is hard not to know when you have a temperature that is out of control. However, with young people, especially the very young, it may take some careful monitoring of the child’s temperature, especially if they are presenting as v=being generally unwell. Good use of the thermometer should tell a clear story if the worse is happening, and this will allow the doctor to be informed quickly if it is necessary.
The sufferer may also feel general aches and pains. This means pains around the body, in the muscles and the joints. Even if you think you are just suffering from general back pain, for example, it is very much worthwhile going to see your doctor about it. It could manifest as a Swine Flu symptom.
You may suffer from a loss of appetite. Again, this will be most noticeable among adults, who generally know when they do not want to eat. However, if your child is generally a fussy eater, it may take a little more investigation to recognise such a symptom.
If you have such symptoms, the next course of action that you must take is very clear. First of all, treat it like a normal flu incidence. In other words, take lots of rest and drink lots of fluids. This means staying in bed and relaxing basically. If the symptoms persist for more than a couple of days however, get yourself to the doctor, or get someone out to see you.
This is because the symptoms will generally peak at around the two to three day mark. After around eight days you should feel better. However, after that three day mark, things should start to calm down. If they don’t, you will need medication and medical attention immediately.
A word about masks. They do provide protection for the people around you if you are carrying a virus, but they do absolutely nothing for you. This is absolutely essential, but seems to be a distinction lost among many people. If you are considering wearing a mask, think twice. It is much better to get well, rather than to keep all of your potentially lethal germs to yourself.
So there are some basics about Swine Flu. If in doubt, consult a doctor. This is always the best course of action.