In recent days, Swine Flu has become the topic of discussion around the world. With the entire globe holding it’s breath at the possibility of a pandemic and World Health Organization Officials confirming 1,001 swine flu cases around the world, we look at the facts of the disease and the practical tips that can be taken to support your immune system.
Firstly, let us look at the virus itself: Swine flu is a systemic viral disease of pigs, which has mutated into a new strain of influenza A virus (H1N1) which can spread among humans. The strain of swine flu that has infected humans is not as dangerous as some others. Humans can catch the flu in two ways: from contact with infected pigs (the most common way) and from contact with infected humans (this is far less common). Furthermore, in cases where humans have infected other humans close contact was necessary with the infected person, and they nearly always occurred in closed groups of people.
As you may remember, there was a panic regarding Bird Flu in 2007 and SARS in 2003. Although both outbreaks resulted in deaths around the world, these serious illnesses did not wipe out masses of the population as predicted by some.
In the UK, irrational fear caused many to rush out and purchase ‘Swine flu medication’ while others took it a step further and boycotted Mexican food – simply because they were not fully informed. The media has a responsibility not to overreact and to deliver the facts without causing undue panic. Professor John Ashton (NHS Cumbria’s public health director in the UK) believes there has already been too much hysteria and commented: “I’m not happy about the tone the media has set – particularly the national tabloids. It’s panicking people unnecessarily.”
The fact is that Swine Flu will likely spread to different countries, but to what degree is unknown. In Mexico, officials are not sure if the casualties were frail, elderly, immune compromised or in poor areas with improper nutrition – all factors that would help determine the severity of the disease and help put it into perspective. Every year South Africa confirms deaths related to flu-like symptoms. Unlike the pandemics of the early 18th Century, luckily today we are better equipped to understand and deal with viral outbreaks and therefore are also in a better position to take preventative measures and to limit .
The news is not all bad – one Scottish couple became the first to be confirmed as having Swine flu after returning from Mexico. However after being treated in hospital - their condition improved. In fact, in Mexico doctors insist that the flu is completely treatable if the patient comes in straight away.
The bottom line from health experts is this: If you have not been to Mexico in recent months and find yourself suffering with flu symptoms take all the normal actions – consult with your doctor, stay in bed and be extra careful not to spread germs. People in Mexico City – the hub of infection, are going about their daily lives wearing facemasks. If they can do it, we in South Africa can stay calm, be sensible and take the usual precautions to keep our immune systems strong.
Strengthening your immune system is key. Studies have shown that antibiotics can actually compromise the immune system and that in contrast, natural herbs and homeopathic medicines can be very effective in supporting the body’s defenses. Here are the various options:
|
