BEST SKY

What’s the worst-case scenario? It could be a continuing vaccine shortage. It might be a mutation in the swine flu virus that suddenly makes the strain resistant to Tamiflu, as some seasonal flu strains already are. Or it could be that hospital ICUs become so overwhelmed that people who could have been saved die.
These are all unnerving possibilities. Yet many flu specialists say their real nightmare is that swine flu could meet up and swap genetic material — or reassort, as these scientists say — with another, deadlier flu strain, breeding a new virus that is as contagious as but far more savage.
Such a strain is already circulating in Asia and Africa, and it could be ready for a chance encounter with swine flu. It is called bird flu. Unlike swine flu, which is no worse than a seasonal flu bug for most people, bird flu kills more than half of those who contract it: Of 460 confirmed human cases of bird flu, 268 of those people died. Bird flu preys on the young and healthy, ravaging their lungs — reminiscent of the 1918 flu that killed up to 50 million people.
So far, scientists haven’t found proof that swine and bird flu will merge and spawn a deadlier virus. But the prospect is so chilling that health officials have been warning about it since earlier this year. Margaret Chan, director general of the World Health Organization, urged public health experts not to take their eyes off H5N1 bird flu even as H1N1 swine flu was sweeping the globe this spring.
“No one can say how this avian virus will behave when pressured by large numbers of people infected with the new H1N1 virus,” she told an assembly of the world’s top health officials in May. Separately, she appealed to Asian health ministers: “Do not drop the ball on monitoring H5N1.”
Influenza is a cruel wonder of nature, one of the most promiscuous microbes. Its viruses have a rare gift for swapping genetic material with one another: The genetic material in a flu virus, unlike in nearly all other viruses, is composed of segments that can be individually replaced. If two different strains invade the same cell, they can trade attributes, then dispatch that progeny back into the world. So the WHO and other health agencies are watching closely as swine flu spreads to countries where bird flu is well established, particularly Egypt and Vietnam.
As a correspondent, I tracked bird flu for several years starting in 2004 in nine Asian countries, from jungle villages to squalid urban quarters, run-down hospitals and cutting-edge labs. I discovered how economic, political and cultural realities were conspiring to imperil us. In a single generation, East Asia’s surging demand for protein has led to an explosion in poultry farming, and these flocks have become perfect breeding grounds for a pandemic strain. Meanwhile, age-old customs facilitated the virus’s spread.
In Thailand, I went to cockfights at makeshift arenas where fans crowded around birds that may be carrying the disease. I visited breeders, witnessing how they cradle the birds, wiping down their bloodied feathers and even sucking mucus from their beaks. At live poultry markets in Indonesia, China and Vietnam, where the air was rank with the odor of chickens and ducks, and the floors slick with their blood, I saw how people and livestock were
crammed together, a crucial nexus in the spread of the virus.
Several Asian countries (notably China, Indonesia, Thailand and Vietnam) covered up their bird flu outbreaks, sometimes until it was too late to contain the virus’s spread — then later claimed to have cornered the virus. But it keeps coming back, and each time it gets another chance to reassort with another virus.
And now, along comes swine flu. Although its mortality rate is well below 1 percent, there have already been tens of millions of cases worldwide. Is this more-contagious virus the key that might unlock bird flu’s terrible full potential? Swine flu is so new that researchers have yet to plumb its secrets. How exactly is it transmitted, how does it attack the body, and why, in very few cases, is it catastrophic? Could it reassort with another flu strain?
Last summer, scientists from the University of Maryland, the Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine and the National University of Colombia published the results of their swine flu research on ferrets (ferrets are susceptible to human flu viruses and display some of the same symptoms as people). The study suggested that swine flu is unlikely to reassort with ordinary seasonal strains and instead is more apt to crowd them out. We can only hope that it will be equally chaste when it comes to bird flu.
But another study, also published this summer, showed that bird flu has the ability to reassort with at least some other strains of flu. A team at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta confirmed this by infecting ferrets with bird flu and ordinary seasonal flu simultaneously. Testing secretions from the ferrets’ noses, researchers found that they carried new flu strains that contained genetic material from both of the parent strains.
We cannot predict the twists and turns of the flu virus, which has repeatedly confounded some of the world’s brightest scientists. No one expected bird flu would leap from birds to humans — until it did. Its initial, withering attack on a boy in Hong Kong 12 years ago was like a “visitation from outer space,” according to flu specialist Keiji Fukuda, who investigated the initial occurrences.
He recalled how the Hong Kong outbreak eluded understanding, even as it spread and began resembling the 1918 Spanish flu. “You feel like: ‘I don’t know what is going to happen. I don’t know what is going on. But what is going on is not good, and it reminds me of the worst not-good of the century,’” he said.
Fukuda, now WHO’s top flu official, says he remains humbled by the flu’s stubborn unpredictability.
Already, the swine flu epidemic has chastened us by revealing the sorry state of our antiquated technology for producing vaccines and the limits of our brittle, under-funded system for emergency medical care. But swine flu is not merely a warning shot. The virus itself could be the catalyst for a new flu — and an even deadlier pandemic.
Sipress, The Washington Post’s economics editor, is the author of “The Fatal Strain: On the Trail of Avian Flu and the Coming Pandemic.”

It’s pretty hard to know who and what to believe about the Swine Flu Virus (H1N1) with so much conflicting information around. With so many emails circulating, it’s hard to know whether gargling with salt water can really lessen the chances of catching the virus, and whether or when the vaccine will be available.

Here are 5 Swine Flu resources that are available to everyone almost every day. Knowing where to find them and using them will help keep you up to date with the most accurate information about your child and the H1N1 virus.

CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention)-This is an organization run by the United States government that is designed to do just what it says-control and prevent the spread of infectious disease. There is a 24 hour, toll free number that will allow you direct access to the latest information, and make you privy to what national health care professionals have determined is the best way to avoid the virus.

You can also use this as an accuracy check for emails that you may receive containing information about the virus. CDC checked out the gargling with salt water email by searching their website. There website showed no scientific basis for this statement.

Local Health Department-The health departments at the state and local levels are on high alert and are a great source of information about what’s happening in your town. They are able to tell you whether they have the vaccine, when they are expecting the next shipment, and when and if they are likely to begin vaccinations in area schools. Having the most accurate and up to the minute information is one of the best ways to stay healthy.

School Nurse-This is a wonderful person to know and check in with. Knowing how the school is handling increases in cases of the flu, and what the plan is should the number of cases spike is great information to have. Children are in a high risk group because they come in contact with so many people daily, and because their hygiene skills are not always consistent.

Being aware of what your child’s school is doing both short-term and long-term to prevent the spread of the virus is helpful physically and emotionally. This helps mold consistent hygiene for your student, and gives you information that is both accurate and current. And the more information you have, the better and more informed your decisions will be about your family’s health.

Pediatrician-Your child’s pediatrician is an invaluable source for everything from symptoms and treatments to prevention and vaccines. Because your physician knows your child’s medical history, they are the best professional to advise you about whether your child should receive the vaccine, whether they should receive the mist or the shot, and the best way to treat the flu should your child catch it.

The Swine Flu is fast acting and you should be too. Don’t be afraid to call the pediatrician immediately. If you’re wrong, you get to take your child home again. If you’re right, and your child does have H1N1 you have most probably saved your child’s life. Calling the pediatrician has to be an immediate response if there is fever, headache, or sudden loss of energy and appetite. This is one time when you hope to be wrong.

Other Parents-Even though other parents can’t give medical advice, you can exchange information with each other that is helpful to you, your children, and the community as a whole. Networking with other parents can yield information that may help you increase your options in ways you had not even considered, and is a valuable tool for keeping your child healthy.

Swine flu is an illness that is affecting hundreds of individuals in the United States as well as worldwide. According to the CDC, the illness may take some more time. Since one is likely to become infected with the condition, they need to understand swine flu symptoms in order for them to obtain proper treatment or medicaion.

The Symptoms

The symptoms of H1N1 infection is similar to that of seasonal flu. Among the symptoms include cough, sore throat, running or stuffy nose, chills and fatigue, to name just a few. Several people infected with the virus have complained of diarrhea and vomiting. The high risk groups prone to H1N1 is not yet known at the moment but it is likely that they are similar to those suffering from seasonal influenza.

People at greater risk of serious side effects from seasonal flu include people more than 65 years old, children below 5 years old, pregnant women, and people with chronic medical consitions as well as those who are taking immunosuppressive medications or with HIV infection.

Avoid Social Contact

If you are feeling sick, your condition may last for more than a week. You should remain at home and refrain from making social contact. As much as possible, you should not communicate with other people to avoid the spread of the virus.

At the moment, the CDC believes that H1N1 has similar properties on the aspect of transmission with seasonal flu virus. If you go out of the house to consult your doctor, wear a mask or use a tissue when coughing or sneezing.

According to recent studies, people suffering from seasonal flu are at risk to transmit the disease a day prior to development of symptoms for up to seven days after getting sick.

Children are more likely to be at risk for a longer period of time so it is best to consult a healthcare provider.

Emergency Warning Signs

If you suddenly become sick and experience any of the following warning signs, this is your cue to seek emergency medical assistance.

In the case of children becoming ill due to H1N1infection, the following warning signs may require immediate medical attention

Fast or difficulty in breathing

Bluish or gray colored skin

Insufficient amount of liquids

Severe or continuous vomiting

Lack of sleep or interaction

Irritability

Recovery from flu-like symptoms but the symptoms come back with fever and worse coughing

Among adults, the following emergency warning signs demand immediate medical attention

Trouble with breathing or shortness of breath

Abdominal pains or pressure in the chest

The individual suddenly becomes dizzy

The patient is confused

Severe or continuous vomiting

Recovery from flu-like symptoms but the symptoms come back with fever and worse coughing

Prevention Is The Best Treatment

You can do your part in preventing the spread of the H1N1 virus. Here are some tips on how you can take part in efforts for preventing the spread of infection.

Be aware. Obtain information about H1N1 by visiting the website of the CDC.

Use a tissue in covering your mouth and nose when sneezing. Afterwards, throw the tissue in the trash.

With soap and water, wash your hands after coughing or sneezing. If possible, use alcohol-based sanitizers.

Refrain from touching your nose or mouth as this could lead to easy transmission of germs.

By being aware of swine flu symptoms, the spread of the H1N1 virus would easily be prevented.

According to the World Health Organization, efforts for developing a swine flu vaccine has been ongoing since the first human case of the virus has been confirmed. Estimates place the initial doses of the vaccine will be administered in 5 to 6 months time.

While people diagnosed with H1N1 virus seems to be headed for recovery, there have been deaths recorded. Aside from that, receiving vaccines for this virus is important particularly the elderly and individuals with a weak immune system, since they are prone to complications such as pneumonia.

Likewise, the vaccine will serve as protection in case the condition persists particularly during the winter months which is the time when influenza is at its peak.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), although they are still incomplete, current evidence shows that seasonal influenza vaccines will provide minimal or no protection against swine flu. Every year, a new batch of flu vaccine is developed and matched with strains that the WHO determines will most probably circulate in the winter months, which happens to be the peak season for influenza outbreaks.

Influenza virus comes in various strains which contains different proteins on their surfaces. The body’s immune system can only fight and destroy a virus if they are able to recognize these proteins. It is worth noting that antibodies that recognize one strain may not detect other strains.

Existing vaccines may only offer some protection against swine influenza if the proteins on its surface are identical to strains used to develop previous vaccines. According to the NIBSC, they are trying to determine if the swine flu virus, which is an H1N1 strain of type A influenza, as well as previous H1N1 vaccines match current vaccines.

The preparation of a vaccine commences after a virus develops as they provide the starting point for the production of the vaccine. As such, there is always a time delay while a vaccine is being developed. Preparation of a vaccine involves several steps so it would take several months before a vaccine becomes available.

According to WHO estimates, the virus needed for producing the vaccine will be accessible to vaccine manufacturers by the middle of May while the initial dose for a new vaccine would be ready within 5 to 6 months after that. Waiting time would be much longer if the growth of the vaccine proceeds rapidly.

Vaccination plays a crucial role in the prevention and reduction of the effects of serious conditions. Unfortunately, they are not entirely effective and could lose its effectiveness if the virus mutates.

Existing flu vaccines are valid for about one year and are 70% - 80% effective against transmission with strains of influenza virus that are identical to strains used in the production of vaccines.

The WHO believes that it is too early to tell how the A(H1N1) virus would change. It is closely monitoring any changes in the virus and this would help countries quickly react to any important changes that the virus may show.

Vaccines help the body combat certain diseases in case an individual becomes afflicted with the illness in the future. On the other hand, an antiviral drug is used on people who is already infected with a virus. Although they work in various ways, they generally work to prevent the virus from spreading to different cells in the body.

Swine flu vaccines are administered prior to exposure to a virus so they would be protected from that agent. Antivirals only work if administered within a certain period of time before or after they are exposed to the virus.

Swine flu as it is commonly called is caused by the H1N1 virus which is a very contagious and acute respiratory disease in pigs. It has now jumped over to humans and after first being diagnosed in Mexico has now spread around the world. The H1N1 virus has not been around long enough for extensive data to accumulate but it is pretty safe to assume that it spreads in the same way as any other flu virus.

There are two ways in which a flu virus can be acquired by humans. The airborne virus is the result of coughing and sneezing by infected persons. It is most likely to be encountered in enclosed spaces where large numbers of people are present. You can avoid it by staying away from large gatherings of people and carefully keeping away from anyone who is coughing or sneezing. If an epidemic is taking place in your area it may help to wear a surgical type mask when outside the home. In the workplace anyone who shows flu symptoms or is coughing should be sent home immediately to avoid infecting others. Some people take immense pride in a perfect work attendance record but safety of others must take precedence and the suspected flu case must stay away from work till fully recovered.

The second means by which the swine flu virus may be acquired is by handling any object which has been handled by an infected person. The virus is present in the nose and mouth and will spread to the hands then to anything which is handled. It is necessary to be very thoughtful and vigilant in protecting against this type of infection. You can wash you hands frequently and disinfect them with hand sanitiser and this will keep your hands free of the virus. However as soon as you touch any door handle or other item which hundreds of others may have touched you may be reinfected. Not only door handles but counters in stores and fast food outlets are commonly used as hand rests. Public transit system doors, seat backs and support rails are handled by thousands daily. Even coins and bills which you may receive in change should be suspect. If you should pick up the virus from any such surface and then put your hand to your face you could become infected.

Should you be seriously concerned if there is a swine flu outbreak in your area? Yes you definitely should and you should take all possible precautions to keep you and your family members as safe as possible from infection. Should you panic if there is an outbreak of H1N1? No definitely not. Most cases are quite mild and recovery at home is fast. The infection is no worse than ordinary seasonal flu in nearly all instances. Remember that hundreds of people die every year from the normal seasonal flu and we have no great concern over this. Nor should we be more concerned about swine flu.

H1N1 Prevention Tips - What are the various H1N1 prevention tips?

H1N1 virus spreads very fast and it is the main cause of swine flu, the dreadful disease which has been responsible for killing hundreds across the globe.

==>**The Best Possible Chance of Preventing Swine Flu**

People who do not follow the various H1N1 prevention tips can get easily infected by the flu virus. The H1N1 virus spreads from one person to other when a person gets in contact with the infected person.

If you are suffering from a cold or cough, you can take various precautions to prevent spreading the cold virus.

The various H1N1 preventive measures help you to stay healthy and prevent spreading the virus. One of the most important H1N1 prevention tips is to wash your hands regularly with warm water and soap.

If you are suffering from the common cold, you should always use a tissue to cover your nose and if you don’t have a tissue or a handkerchief, you should sneeze in your elbows and not in hands.

You should keep your bed clean and living rooms airy to prevent collection of infectious bacteria at your home.

You should avoid hand-to-hand contact with an infected person and should not touch your eyes or nose recurrently.

You should not share your personal items such as towels or soaps with an infected person.

If you get infected, you should stay at home and not get in contact with other people. You should get yourself examined and follow the instructions given by your doctor and  rest at your home until you recover.

Roots of H1N1

H1N1influenza or Swine flu is a respiratory disease caused by viruses and it produces most of the same symptoms in pigs as human flu produces in people. This pandemic flu, -unlike other pandemic flues such as avail flu and Tami flu-can last about one to two weeks in pigs that survive. The H1N1 virus was first isolated from pigs in 1930 in the U.S. In a number of instances, people have contracted the swine flu infection when they are closely associated with pigs.

Types of pandemic flu virus

Type A viruses can cause severe illness and are the only type to have caused human pandemics. Type B strains cause sporadic human cases and small-scale outbreaks. Type C strains only rarely cause human infection and have not caused large outbreaks. Of the influenza A viruses, only subtypes H1, H2 and H3 have been transmitted easily between humans.

Symptoms

Symptoms of H1N1 are similar to most pandemic flu infections: fever, cough, nasal secretions, fatigue, and headache are seen in most infected individuals. Some patients develop severe respiratory symptoms and need respiratory support. Patients can get pneumonia if the viral infection persists, and some can develop seizures. Death often occurs from secondary bacterial infection of the lungs. The usual mortality rate for typical influenza A is about 0.1%, while the 1918 Spanish flu epidemic had an estimated mortality rate ranging from 2%-20%. By June 2009, the virus had spread to around 74 countries.

Effective treatment

Two antiviral drugs have been found helpful in preventing the pandemic flu. They are zanamivir and oseltamivir. However, these drugs should not be used indiscriminately. Also, they are not recommended if the flu symptoms already have been present for 48 hours or more, although hospitalized patients may still be treated past the 48-hour guideline. Severe infections in some patients may require additional supportive measures such as ventilation support and treatment of other infections like pneumonia that can occur in patients with a severe flu infection.

Impact of Vaccination

Prevention by vaccination is the best method of preventing this pandemic flu. The first vaccine was released in early October 2009. It is approved for use in healthy individuals ages 2 through 49. This vaccine consists of a live attenuated H1N1 virus and should not be used in anyone who is pregnant or immune compromised. The injectable vaccine, made from killed H1N1, was introduced later for use in ages 6 months to the elderly, including pregnant females. Both of these vaccines have been approved by the CDC. The basic thing to recover from this pandemic flue is necessary rest and timely medication.

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