If there’s an illness that really knocks us down, it’s the flu. Discomfort, weakness, fever, and indisposition. As if that weren’t enough, an even more dangerous variation of the flu virus emerged that has been causing a lot of concern: H1N1 flu.

What is H1N1

Also known as swine flu or Influenza type A, H1N1 became known worldwide between 2009 and 2010 after outbreaks of the disease reached alarming proportions. More than 20 countries reported cases of swine flu during this period, causing thousands of deaths mainly among people aged 5 to 24. Although the complications caused by H1N1 are much more severe than those of regular flu, the symptoms are quite similar and it is transmitted in the same way.

Main Causes

The H1N1 virus was first discovered in pigs. With numerous mutations over time, it also became a threat to humans. Since it appeared so suddenly, the influenza A virus in this variation was still unknown and for this reason managed to spread quickly.We weren’t prepared to fight it, either with treatments or developed vaccines with proven effectiveness. This quickly turned into an outbreak with many severe cases.

Symptoms and Diagnosis of H1N1

Because H1N1 flu symptoms are very similar to those of regular flu, it can easily lead to an incorrect initial diagnosis. That’s why it’s important to recognize some specific signs that make it possible to identify the H1N1 virus, influenza type A.Patients with H1N1 flu commonly present with a sudden high fever (above 38°C), headache, sore throat, muscle and joint pain, runny nose, and lack of appetite. Respiratory tract problems like cough are also common. Other symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting are less frequent but may still occur.If you notice these symptoms, it’s best to see a doctor as soon as possible to evaluate and request the appropriate tests for an accurate diagnosis. If during the clinical appointment you are asked to wear a surgical mask, don’t be alarmed—this is recommended to decrease the chance of spreading the virus. If you do have the disease, you wouldn’t want to spread it to anyone else, right?

How H1N1 Spreads

About seven days after the onset of symptoms, an adult can already transmit the disease. If the sick person is a child, they can transmit the virus starting two days before symptoms appear and up to 14 days after.Contamination can happen through direct contact with an infected animal, but not by eating its cooked meat. Some studies already show that animal meat (for example, pork) cooked at temperatures above 71°C eliminates the virus, removing the health risk. The most common way to catch H1N1 flu is from one infected person to another through the air or through contaminated objects, and even via saliva and respiratory secretions.

Risk Factors

People of any age can catch H1N1 flu. Most cases have occurred in people between the ages of five and 24, and contrary to what many think, there have been few cases diagnosed in seniors over 64.People with chronic diseases, respiratory problems, obesity, pregnant women, and young children are more vulnerable to swine flu and should be extra careful. Vaccination is a great way to prevent infection.Risk factors for H1N1 also include situations that are risky for many other, especially respiratory, diseases, such as spending long periods in closed environments, contact with sick people, and poor hand hygiene.

Prevention and Treatment

In addition to the essential prevention steps, there are other important tips to help keep this virus far away from you. Pay attention to the following tips to best preserve your health and your family’s:

  • In addition to thoroughly washing hands with soap and water, disinfect them with hand sanitizer.
  • Avoid crowds; opt for well-ventilated places whenever possible.
  • Do not share personal items (cups and cutlery).
  • Avoid traveling to places with many cases of the disease.
  • Avoid contact with sick people. Remember that this virus is easily spread through the air.
  • Throw away any tissue or paper used for sneezing or coughing.
  • Drink plenty of fluids at all times!

H1N1 Vaccine – Where to Find It

With the sudden arrival of H1N1, it was necessary to speed up the vaccine development process, made with the virus itself, but inactivated. Side effects from the vaccine are not significant, especially considering its purpose to protect against a disease that truly can cause serious harm to our health.The vaccine is available through the public health system which provides it for free in vaccination campaigns and to risk groups such as healthcare professionals, pregnant women, people over 60, children up to 5 years old, and the incarcerated population.Private clinics are also prepared and offer immunization with two types of vaccines: the trivalent, which protects against H1N1 plus two other viruses, and the quadrivalent/tetravalent, which protects against four different viruses, including influenza A. Both types are effective, but effects are established about two weeks after injection. We cannot say that the vaccine guarantees 100% protection against the H1N1 flu virus, but it is currently the most effective protection.Also see: Pneumonia in Children – How to Spot It?Photos: Canon EOS 5d Mark Iii, Prefeitura Municipal Itanhaem