H1N1 Incubation Period

As you know, the H1N1 flu is also known as swine flu. This ailment, which is a respiratory infection, has its cause as an influenza virus. This virus came into recognition in 2009. Now, there is a new virus, which is known as swine influenza A (H1N1). This one consists of a genetic material which is a combination of human, swine and avian flu viruses. The H1N1 flu, as the name suggests, refers to an ailment of influenza in pigs. Although, there are occasional chances of an affected pig passing on the virus to people, it is highly unlikely that someone may also be affected by eating pork. Due to the rapid spreading mechanism of the H1N1 flu, WHO (World Health Organization) enlisted this condition under global pandemics.

Swine Flu Incubation Period

The incubation period of swine flu (the period between infection and the appearance of symptoms of the disease) is not specific. According to the White House, it was 1-2 days (24-48 hours). However, in some cases, it was also found to range from 1-5 days. Then again, what doctors found in most cases in the United States is that, the incubation period lasted from 2-7 days.

Symptoms that Indicate Swine Flu

The symptoms which are observed in swine flu, are similar to the ones caused by other flu viruses. Fever is what marks the beginning of the onset of the H1N1 flu. This is followed by cough, sore throat and body aches including headaches. To make the condition worse, the virus also triggers chills in the body, fatigue, diarrhea and vomiting. After the onset of these symptoms, which occur post the incubation period, they may tend to continue for about 8 days and remain until the ailing person has completely recuperated.

Treatment

Generally, if a person who is in a good shape and health and does not have any sort of chronic diseases, may not require medical help, even if he contracts the infection. However, expecting mothers or people who are ailing from other medical conditions, must not ignore medical aid, if they suspect themselves to have been affected by the swine flu virus.

Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and zanamivir (Relenza) are the commonly prescribed medications which are known to provide relief from symptoms of the H1N1 flu. At home, you can ease your symptoms by increasing the fluid intake in your diet. Good examples are juice, clear broth and most importantly, water. Drinking plenty of fluids help prevent dehydration and one is required to drink to have clear or pale yellow urine. While recovering from H1N1, rest becomes more essential. The more you sleep, the stronger the immune system will be to ward off the infection. Symptoms like fever and aches may be taken care off by taking over-the-counter medications. However, precaution is necessary while giving medications to children and teens.

To conclude, a vaccination for the condition, is known to have been developed and it is recommended for people depending on their age and overall health condition. People ailing with the H1N1 flu must stay at home, in order to prevent any further spread of the disease. It is also essential that your hands must be washed regularly, thoroughly and several times a day. Remember that the H1N1 virus can survive for 2 hours or more on surfaces like those of door knobs, table, etc. Using alcohol-based hand sanitizer is considered to be the best option, when soap and water are not around. Avoid crowded places and reduce the possibility of too many people attending the ailing person in your household.