How to Protect Yourself From Influenza A H1N1 – Swine Flu
The latest outbreak that is causing major concern around the world is the Influenza A virus subtype H1N1, also known as A(H1N1) and commonly known as Swine Flu. It is one of the most common causes of influenza in humans.
One should recall the1918 flu pandemic which killed almost 100 million people worldwide to understand why the World Health Organisation (WHO) and health ministries all over the world are taking this virus seriously reusable face mask B08MZHJD16.
It has been reported that an outbreak of H1N1 influenza occurred in March and April 2009, in Mexico, which led to hundreds of confirmed cases and a number of deaths.
On April 27, 2009, the WHO raised their alertness level from 3 to 4 (on a scale of 6) worldwide, sparking the rest of the world to take action. This was in response to confirmed and sustained human-to-human transfer of the virus.
On April 29, 2009, the situation was raised to level 5 (pandemic imminent).
Various countries have since started on their measures to conduct temperature screening at all entry and exit points in the country. Contact tracing will help to identify people who come in contact with the virus. People are advised to wear face masks and to sanitize their hands regularly. More importantly, stockpiles of Tamiflu have already been secured should the need arise to treat the young and elderly.
Research is being done to develop test kits and vaccines for this strain of virus. However, the key to handle this pandemic is Prevention. Vaccines take a long time to develop, let alone be tested and manufactured in amounts needed to treat the whole world. One should not be complacent and everybody should be civic-minded to ensure that the virus is not transmitted.
Here are some tips on what you can do to prevent the spread of H1N1:
- Wash your hands frequently with Antiseptic Hand Wash, especially before a meal.
- Buy from a reputable company as the amount and type of antiseptic is important to ensure 100% kill of the germs. If not all 100% is killed, the remaining germs can mutate and develop resistance to the antiseptic, resulting in a new strain of “Super bugs”.
- If water is not available, use good quality Antiseptic Hand Sanitizers that do not require a water rinse.
- Make sure you carry pocket size Hand Sanitizers and Wipes.