The seasonal influenza vaccine is unlikely to offer protection against swine flu. However, it is strongly recommended that people continue to be vaccinated against seasonal influenza.
- wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol based hand gel
- wash your hands prior to touching your eyes, nose or mouth
- when coughing or sneezing, cover your mouth and nose with disposable tissues which should be disposed of immediately
- don’t share items such as cigarettes, glasses or cups, lipstick, toys or anything which could be contaminated with respiratory secretions
- maintain at least one metre distance from people who have flu like symptoms such as coughing or sneezing
- consult your doctor if you have a cough and fever, and follow their instructions, including taking medicine as prescribed
- if attending a medical practice or hospital Emergency Department, telephone beforehand so they can arrange for you to be seen away from other people if you suspect swine flu or are a high risk person having just returned from Canada, USA or Mexico.
There’s some swine flu symptoms, you can read here the swine flu symptoms.
Current information suggests that anti?viral drugs (Tamiflu and Relenza) are effective against the swine flu. These drugs are available via a doctor’s prescription. It is not expected that the Australian seasonal influenza vaccine will provide protection against this new strain of influenza, however people over 65 and other vulnerable groups should still be encouraged to be vaccinated as this will at least provide protection against season influenza.
How do we test for swine flu?
Testing involves a nose and throat swab which is sent away to Queensland Health’s Brisbane laboratory. Any initial test results that are positive are sent to the World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Influenza in Victoria for confirmation.
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the spread of AH1N1 or Swine Flu is really scary. It is a good thing that this virus is not very deadly. We are advised to take Vitamin-C and to wear face masks.
the use of face masks and boosting your immune system by taking lots of vitamin-C is still an effective way of preventing the spread of the Swine Flu virus.