What you should know about A (H1N1) flu.

I have in a few occasions explaining about the above during our weekly meet up.

I think as biology students, we should know a bit more about this new virus which has caused a pandemic.

So, what is this virus? how are they different from the normal seasonal flu virus? What are the symptoms? What are the possible treatments? Why this virus can kill? Can the normal flu vaccine prevent people from getting this flu? Is the H1N1 vaccine available now?.... Find out yourself by clicking FAQ on swine flu and H1N1 flu.

The following steps can help decrease the likelihood of transmission.
1) Wash hands frequently with soap and water for 20 seconds. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.

2) Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.

3) Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.

4) People who are sick with an influenza-like illness (ILI) (fever plus at least cough or sore throat and possibly other symptoms like runny nose, body aches, headaches, chills, fatigue, vomiting and diarrhea) should stay home and keep away from others as much as possible, including avoiding travel, for at least 24 hours after fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Fever should be gone without the use of fever-reducing medicine).

5) Avoid close contact (i.e. being within about 6 feet) with persons with ILI.

Practice good habits everyday to stay healthy, perhaps this cute video could help.