What You Need to Know About Swine Flu

Specialist Dr. Yusuf Emre Uzun from the Internal Medicine Department at Memorial Bahçelievler Hospital provided information on swine flu and its treatment. Swine flu, which caused a global pandemic in recent years, continues to be widely seen in recent times. Given that swine flu is caused by the H1N1 subgroup of the Influenza A virus and its symptoms can be confused with other types of flu and COVID-19, caution is warranted and personal precautions are important. [caption id="attachment_148681" align="aligncenter"] Specialist Dr. Yusuf Emre Uzun[/caption]

Swine flu cases are increasing daily

Flu, an infectious disease caused by viruses known as influenza, manifests with symptoms such as high fever, severe muscle and joint pain, and dry cough. Influenza viruses are members of the 'Orthomyxoviridae' family. They are classified into types (Influenza A, B, C, D) according to their antigenic structure and into subtypes (such as H1N1, H3N2) based on the proteins found in their outer envelope—hemagglutinin (H) and neuraminidase (N). Influenza A and B viruses can cause disease in humans. (Influenza A affects humans, pigs, horses, and poultry; Influenza B affects only humans) An important characteristic of Influenza A virus is that subtypes from different species are open to genetic material exchange with each other and are highly conducive to the creation of a different virus. This situation allows the virus to create new infections, epidemics, and pandemics. First identified in Mexico in 2009, "swine flu" is caused by the H1N1 subgroup of the Influenza A virus. H1N1 caused a global pandemic in 2009-2010.  

Pay attention to these symptoms

Swine flu symptoms are the same as other common types of flu. Swine flu symptoms can particularly resemble COVID-19 symptoms, and these two diseases can be easily confused. Those with underlying health problems and illnesses are at particularly higher risk. Lung infection (pneumonia) and respiratory failure can be life-threatening. In the presence of signs such as prolonged and persistent fever, general malaise, respiratory distress, and altered mental status, medical care must be sought immediately.

Main symptoms of swine flu

1. Fever, 2. Cough, 3. Sore throat, 4. Muscle and joint pain, 5. Headache, 6. Chills and shivering 7. Fatigue 8. Diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting (rare)

Get tested

In patients suspected of having flu or swine flu, appropriate tests can confirm the diagnosis of the disease. Various laboratory test methods can be used for influenza diagnosis. These tests are as follows: • Nucleic acid amplification tests (RT-PCR) • Rapid antigen tests • Culture – virus isolation • Serological diagnosis (antibody tests) • ELISA The most commonly used methods in daily practice are PCR and rapid antigen tests due to their reliability and rapid results. The most ideal specimen for these tests is a nasopharyngeal swab, obtained by sampling with a cotton swab from inside the nose and throat. While rapid antigen tests can detect the presence of Influenza A and Influenza B, PCR testing can be used for subgroup analysis (H1N1—swine flu).  

If you are in a risk group, be careful!

Swine flu can resolve on its own without any treatment. However, swine flu must be treated in individuals in the risk group. People in the risk group include: ● Pregnant women ● Children aged 6-59 months and adults over age 50 ● Those with chronic diseases ● Immunocompromised patients ● Obese individuals ● Healthcare workers ● Those in particular contact with children under 6 months ● Household contacts and caregivers of people under age 5 and over age 50

Vaccination is important

Seasonal flu vaccines updated each year provide protection against three or four flu viruses—such as H1N1 (swine flu vaccine) and H3N2—expected to be most common during that year's flu season. For this reason, the flu vaccine should be administered every October. However, those in the risk group can be vaccinated until February if they have not been vaccinated previously. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends annual flu vaccination for everyone over age 6 months. In addition to rest and supportive care in the treatment of swine flu, antiviral drugs effective against influenza virus can be used. Influenza-related symptoms such as fever, headache, and myalgia (muscle pain) can be treated with paracetamol or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.