What is the Difference Between Regular Flu and Swine Flu? And why it's Important to Know

Are you wondering if there is a difference between regular flu and swine flu? There has been so much talk about the H1N1 virus that many people have been asking that question. This article will supply some simple answers for you.

The flu people generally contract each fall is referred to as seasonal flu, or regular flu. It is endemic to humans and refers, generally, to types A, B or C.

Unlike regular flu, swine flu actually originated inside the intestines of a pig and were somehow transmitted to a human who, in turn, spread it to other humans. Animal strains of flu can originate in birds (H5N1) or pigs (H1N1), thus the terms "bird flu" and "swine flu."

It is believed the current swine flu strain originated on a pig farm in Mexico, near Vera Cruz.

How come this Pig Flu is More Dangerous than Seasonal Flu?

Because it is a new strain. No one before this spring of 2009 had ever been exposed to it. Since it originated in an animal, humans appear to have no natural immunity to it. It is for this reason that vaccinations are considered essential.

If I Get My Regular Annual Flu Shot, Will I be Protected from Swine Flu?

No, that does not appear to be the case. Regular seasonal flu vaccine will not protect you from the swine flu presently in circulation.

Can you Explain the Difference Between the Regular and Swine Flu Vaccines?

The regular flu vaccine is usually made up of a combination of the three most common human flu viruses. On the other hand, the new swine flu vaccine is made up of the animal H1N1 virus exclusively.

Remember, vaccines are designed to build up your immunity.

How do I Know Which Flu I Have if I Get Sick?

To be honest, the symptoms seem to be the same: Chills, aches, pains, coughing, sore throat, sneezing, general malaise. Some people also have vomiting and diarrhea.

Swine flu may tend to last longer. The big fear is the respiratory system - if this virus is allowed to settle there, it can cause pneumonia or other serious respiratory problems.

What People Have the Largest Risk Factors?

Analysis from the Centers for Disease Control indicates the H1N1 flu is more dangerous to people younger than 25 years of age. Oddly, it appears people over age 65 are less likely to contract it, perhaps because they may have some were exposed to similar (though not identical) strains in the 1950s and 60s.

This is a huge difference from seasonal flu where the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems, compose the highest risk group.

How Can I Know for Sure Which Flu a Family Member Has?

Your family member will need to see a doctor or health care professional. A simple swab test will be performed and submitted for lab analysis. It should take just a day or two to know the results.

Does Prescribed Treatment Vary between Regular and Swine Flu?

Probably not much. Always consult your physician or health professional.

Likely your doctor will prescribe bed rest, instruct you to drink lots of fluids, and perhaps suggest over the counter medications to relieve coughing, sneezing, and your aches and pains. Other doctors may recommend antiviral drugs like Tamiflu or Relenza, which appear to have some effectiveness when used when symptoms first appear.

A big concern is children. Stay close in touch with your pediatrician and report immediately if your child develops difficulty breathing or becomes unusually lethargic.

What Makes Swine Flu More Dangerous than Regular Flu?

Like other flu pandemics of years past, it is feared swine flu may cause serious respiratory problems that could become life threatening, even to healthy young people. Generally, the symptoms will worsen about the time regular flu symptoms would be going away - at around four to six days, maybe seven.

Governments around the world have been put on alert by the World Health Organization to prepare for a global pandemic. In April, 2009, the WHO raised the warning level from level 4 to level 5.

With history as our teacher, we know that pandemic influenza in years past has all but disappeared during warm summer months, only to reappear with greater strength and deadliness in the fall and winter months.

Every family should have an action plan when faced with this pandemic influenza. Governments are now preparing for major disruptions in commerce and transportation. You likewise need to prepare for these.

You can get help starting your action plan by visiting the site where you will find additional information about the differences between regular flu and swine flu.

Terry Fallon writes articles and features about the family's health, happiness and well being.