Swine Flu

Swine Flu, which originated in pigs, is a form of influenza that originally only affected pigs. Influenza, in its most common form, is a seasonal flu that affects humans resulting in several uncomfortable symptoms, but rarely death. Influenza, or the flu virus, is constantly changing and evolving. It can be found in animals, but animal specific strains are generally contained to those animals.

Flu viruses are constantly evolving, and also have the ability to swap genetic components with one another. The new strain of Influenza A (H1N1) is a result of several different versions of the flu virus. Pigs have played the role of host to this new strain of the H1N1 virus.

Like bird flu, early reports of swine flu were only found in people that were in close contact to infected pigs, however, the current strain of swine flu caused by influenza type A virus (H1B1) has more recently been found to be spread by humans to humans. Now that swine flu is not simply contained to pigs, and can be transmitted between humans, it poses a large health risk, as little is known about its affects on humans and the consequences it bares should someone contract it. Swine flu treatment can be found in the form of several prescription medications, but is limited due to the shelf life of the new strain of the virus.

How has swine flu spread from pigs to humans?

Swine flu originally spread from pigs to humans only when humans were in direct and constant contact with infected pigs. Swine flu has more recently become a major health risk as the H1N1 strain can now be transmitted from humans to humans.

Similar to conventional or seasonal flu, swine flu bares common flu like symptoms like fever, sore throat, body aches, cough, fatigue and chills. While the majority of cases have not been life threatening, there have recently been a large number of fatalities linked to swine flu in Mexico.

Are we vulnerable to swine flu infection and should we be worried?

Swine Flu will not ordinarily infect humans (although particular cases have been reported), according to the BBC. The majority of reported cases however, have involved close contact with pigs. It is crucial that you are aware that the swine flu virus can potentially be spread from person to person in the same way as conventional flu can and it is thus possible that swine flu can be transmitted through the air between humans. While it is still considered rare, it must be taken into consideration.

Many people are suddenly weary of eating pork, and thus a popular question is whether it is safe or not to eat it. While extra care must be taken when selecting or buying pork, there has been no evidence of contamination through the meat. It is considered safe although it is advised that you cook it at a temperature of 70C (158F).

What is Tamiflu & how does it work to combat swine flu?

Tamiflu is a progressive oral treatment designed to fight influenza, can now be considered an effective swine flu treatment. It belongs to a group of medication known as neuraminidase inhibitors, which differ to over the counter medications due to the fact that they actually attack the virus, as opposed to masking the symptoms. It also works as prevention against the cross contamination of swine flu in humans.

The active ingredient in Tamiflu is oseltamivir phosphate, which belongs to the neuraminidase inhibitors group. Tamiflu can potentially help to reduce the symptoms of swine flu by binding itself to the neuraminidase, preventing it from functioning. This in turn stops the newly formed, viral particles from being released. In essence, the virus is stopped in its tracks. Tamiflu appears to be a more affective swine flu treatment the closer it is administered to the initial symptoms being observed.

Tamiflu can also boost your immune system which could allow it to destroy the virus before it spreads. The success of this product varies from case to case. Tamiflu is considered a effective swine flu treatment.

Can I get treatment Online?

In the first instance, we recommend that you consult with your family doctor before considering ordering online. If you want to place an order, you are advised to complete the form including all medical questions accurately. Should Tamiflu be a suitable swine flu treatment for you, you will be directed through a simple online ordering procedure.