Discover reliable answers to the most common questions about swine flu, drawn from health authorities like the World Health Organization (WHO).
What is swine flu?
Swine flu is a novel virus combining genes from American and European swine flu strains, avian flu, and human flu in a unique configuration never seen before. Known officially as influenza A(H1N1), it spreads person-to-person and was first detected in Mexico on March 18, 2009.
How does it spread?
Infection occurs through tiny respiratory droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These droplets can be inhaled directly, or the virus can linger on surfaces for hours, transferring via contact with the mouth, eyes, or nose.
Why might many people get sick?
Seasonal flu waves occur every winter from familiar viruses, for which vaccines exist, affecting vulnerable individuals. Every 10 to 50 years, a new virus emerges against which humans lack immunity, leading to more severe widespread illness.
How long from infection to symptoms?
Symptoms typically appear 2 to 4 days after infection, up to a maximum of 7 days. Infected individuals can spread the virus from 1 day before symptoms start until 5 days after.
How can I tell if I have swine flu?
Symptoms mirror seasonal flu: headache, sore throat, cough, fever, runny nose, muscle aches, and fatigue. If you've traveled to affected areas or contacted someone ill, stay alert, notify your doctor by phone first to avoid spreading it, and seek specific antiviral treatment if prescribed.
What is a flu pandemic?
A pandemic is a global epidemic meeting three criteria: the disease is new, highly contagious person-to-person, and spreads easily. Unlike cancer, which kills many but isn't transmissible, flu pandemics rapidly affect populations worldwide.
What are the infection risks?
By late July 2009, WHO reported 985 swine flu infections. Mexico confirmed 25 deaths at that time, with cases now in 20 countries, including the Netherlands.
Do face masks help?
WHO states masks offer no protection in public and may increase risk if handled improperly, such as with unwashed hands during application or removal.
How can I protect myself and my family?
- Wash hands frequently, maintain a clean home, and ensure good ventilation.
- Stock non-perishables and water for at least 3 days; 3 weeks is ideal.
- With symptoms (fever, aches, sore throat, cough, fatigue), isolate and contact your doctor by phone.
- Antivirals like Tamiflu and Relenza treat or prevent flu. Government stocks cover about one in three Dutch people, but available for purchase: 10 Tamiflu tablets for €79.95 online.
Can I get vaccinated?
A government vaccination program launches this autumn, prioritizing healthcare workers and youth (unconfirmed). Details pending.
How dangerous is the virus?
Not everyone infected dies; fewer fatalities than initially feared so far. More expected this autumn, with pessimistic estimates of 7 daily deaths in the Netherlands. Compare to 1918-1919 Spanish flu: 20-100 million deaths worldwide.
For further questions, consult your GP or a healthcare professional.
