What is H1N1 (Swine Flu) And How Does it Affect Your Immune Health?
H1N1, also known as swine flu, has become a phrase that has struck fear around the world, yet many people still don't understand how it compares to the seasonal influenza virus. The H1N1 virus is a new influenza A virus that is composed of what scientists call a quadruple reassortant, meaning it is made up of several different genetic strains of viruses including two genes from influenza viruses normally circulated in the European and Asian pig populations, one gene from avian influenza and one gene from human influenza.
Contrary to some initial fears, the H1N1 virus is not spread via the food chain, but instead is a respiratory disease spread by contact with infected individuals. It is spread just as the seasonal influenza virus is passed via infected droplets expelled by coughing or sneezing that can be inhaled, or that can contaminate hands or surfaces.
Who Is At Risk?
When the epidemic was first discovered, panic set in, closing schools. People immediately went to the emergency room rather than the family doctor. Since then, the panic has subsided and most experts suggest only going to the doctor if certain symptoms are present including shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, or fever that continues for more than three days. Parents with young children who are ill are encouraged to seek medical care if a child has fast or labored breathing, continuing fever or seizures.
About 70 percent of people who have been hospitalized with H1N1 virus have had one or more medical conditions that placed them in the 'high risk' category for serious seasonal flu-related complications. These conditions include pregnancy, diabetes, heart disease, asthma and kidney disease.
Yearly influenza epidemics can seriously affect all age groups, but the highest risk of complications occur among children younger than age two, adults age 65 or older and people of any age with certain medical conditions. Illness with the new H1N1 virus has ranged from mild to severe. The vast majority of people who have contracted H1N1 have recovered without medical treatment, yet hospitalizations and deaths have occurred.
The First Lines Of Defense
Vaccination is recommended by the CDC as the first line of defense to prevent the disease or severe outcomes from the H1N1 virus. Vaccinations have been proven to prevent 70 to 90 percent of influenza-specific illness. Among the elderly, the vaccine reduces severe illnesses and complications by up to 60 percent and deaths by 80 percent.
Seniors (adults 65 years and older) are prioritized for antiviral treatment to limit risk of complication if they contract the flu. While your age could mean you have a lower risk of getting the flu, certain risk conditions (COPD, diabetes, etc.) mean if you get sick, you may have higher risk of complications from any influenza.
However, some groups of people should avoid getting vaccinated for health reasons. These groups include anyone who is allergic to chicken eggs or any other component of the vaccine, anyone who has had an adverse reaction to flu vaccines in the past, and anyone who has had Guillain-Barre Syndrome.
Aside from vaccinations, the second line of defense in fighting flu is good hygiene. Since it is is spread via hand to mouth and nose contact, hand washing is essential. Hands should be washed frequently and thoroughly for at least 20 seconds. Hand sanitizers are also effective at fighting flu viruses. People who have H1N1 are wise to sneeze into their sleeve rather than hands to prevent transmitting the germs.
Fighting Flu By Boosting Immune Health
It's impossible to not be exposed to seasonal or H1N1 flu at some point, but that doesn't necessarily mean that everyone who is exposed will become ill. Boosting immunity before coming in contact with the virus can help ward it off.
Fighting flu and enhancing immune health is possible by building immunity with vitamin C, zinc and elderberry extract. Vitamin C increases the production of infection-fighting white blood cells and antibodies that coat cell surfaces, preventing the entry of viruses. Zinc increases the production of white blood cells that fight infections and helps them fight more aggressively while also assisting white cells release more antibodies.
Perhaps one of the most promising immunity boosters is elderberry extract. Research conducted at the University of Oslo has demonstrated that products containing elderberry extract also aid in the prevention of the influenza virus by preventing viruses from attaching to host cells, thereby preventing infection.
Good hygiene, vaccination and immune support such as vitamin C, zinc and products containing elderberry extract provide several of the barriers required to fight the H1N1 virus.
Avian Flu Virus
About the Avian Flu Virus
The current Asian outbreak of avian flu, also known as bird flu, is associated with the influenza A strain H5N1 flu virus. Although not the same as the Spanish flu virus that claimed 20 million to 50 million lives worldwide in the 1918 outbreak, the current avian flu strain does share many characteristics with the 1918 strain. Both scientists and governments around the world are studying this threat very closely and some have warned of the potential for another pandemic outbreak. Initial studies have shown that Tamiflu may be effective in helping to fight the effects of this flu virus if the medication is taken very early after flu symptoms appear.
Oseltamivir, sold under the brand name Tamiflu, is one of several antiviral medications approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment and prevention of influenza. Flu shots are still the best way to prevent someone from developing the flu, but as of this writing no vaccine is available to protect humans from the avian H5N1 influenza virus. According to the CDC, development of a vaccine has begun.
Tamiflu, which is generically known as oseltamivir, is part of a family of flu fighting medicines called neuraminidase inhibitors. Tamilflu is used in the treatment of viral infections caused by the influenza A and influenza B viruses. This treatment has shown to be effective in fighting these viruses if treatment starts within two days of the onset of flu symptoms. Tamiflu works by blocking the advance of the viral infection and thus giving the body's immune system a better chance for fighting the virus. Tamiflu can help you get back to being healthy fast
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Bird Flu (H1N1 Virus) – Symptoms, Treatment and Breaking the Myths
No other virus has caused so much panic and apprehension in recent times as the H1N1 virus, better known as the "bird flu". The furor causes by AIDS and the Ebola virus did cause a sizable ripple in the news media but the H11 virus surpassed that because of the nature of the disease and the fact that it is one of the most contagious disease known to man. The bird flu gets its name from a migratory bird usually found in Asia that was reported to have carried the first instances of the disease.
The disease was initially called the Avian Influenza, but the medical term is H1N1. One of the reasons why there has been widespread panic regarding the virus is because there is no known cure yet. The most doctors can do is prescribe medication that slows the advance of the virus and also prevents the disease from combining forces with the common human flu. This also brings us to another reason why there seems to be widespread apprehension regarding the disease; it exhibits much of the same symptoms known to be present in the common cold or flu.
Symptoms
H1N1 suffers first report the same symptoms that one would have if they had a cold, namely, a running nose, a persistent dry cough, headaches and sinus pressure. This means that people who have contracted the bird flu may initially dismiss it as inconsequential and may treat it as they would any other fever that will go away in one or two days. But the disease also comes with additional symptoms namely chronic muscle aches, diarrhea and a burning fever that may clock over 100 degrees. These symptoms if untreated may afflict the patient for a week or two.
H1N1 is not known to be fatal in itself but has been known to kill toddlers and the elderly. It can also complicate matters for people who possess a pre-existing medical condition especially if that condition has already taken a toll on their immune system.
Treating H1N1
There has been a stampede to visit the doctor once the above general symptoms have been detected. This has stretched medical resources to breaking point in some countries especially those that had a medical system that was already over-burdened. Since there is no known cure for H1N1, doctors can only prescribe medication to "manage" the sickness. One can also purchase Tamiflu from a local pharmacy and this has been known to arrest most of the symptoms and give the body's own defense systems time to regroup.
Patients are also asked to stay in seclusion as much as possible especially students who study in crowded buildings. Again, H1N1 is highly contageous and can be spread quickly through dense population centers. Many workplaces are now instituting training and education on how to deal with the disease.
Patients should also concentrate on resting and should also take as much water and fluids as possible especially those who are experiencing diarrhea. Again, H1N1 is not fatal in itself and the body's immune system does eventually prevail against the virus. Taking regular vitamins is essential because these help boost the immune system to withstand a possible future attack.
Bird Flu: H5N1 Influenza Status Briefing Natural Protection
The virus H5N1, has a few similarities with the Spanish flu of 1918 that resulted in one of the largest pandemics in the last 200 years. Both of these contagious outbreaks cause high fever, lower respiratory tract failure symptoms, prostration, myalgias, and a postviral weakness that could last up to 6 weeks.
Twenty-four hour access channels have warned of a coming pandemic that may arrive in the form of H5N1 avian influenza, more commonly referred to as 'bird flu'. The market for poultry products has decreased internationally because of a lack of consumer confidence in a safe supply.
In Eastern Asian countries entire flocks of chickens have been destroyed because of an outbreak that easily spreads from bird to bird, infecting the entire flock.
Proactive Steps
Current laboratory research currently indicates existing flu prescriptions should be an active and readily available treatment should the 'bird flu' H5N1 make its presence felt. While this is good news, there is a second wave effect that has historically been seen in such a widespread influenza outbreak. The second wave may occur when the flu strain alters just enough to render existing medications ineffective.
Knowledge is a primary key in the battle of any communicable disease. Understanding symptoms can provide both peace of mind as well as the information you need to know should a doctor's visit be required.
Defining Bird Flu
Like the more common flu strains, 'bird flu' may include fever, sore throat, muscle aches and eye infections. However, 'bird flu' may also include pronounced lethargy, acute breathing difficulties and chest pain. In more extreme cases pneumonia may make an appearance as well as potential organ failure.
This virulent strain of flu virus has, to date, been spread primarily through poultry and water fowl. The limited human fatalities that have been reported have all been a result of close interaction with infected birds.
The incubation period for humans who do contract 'bird flu' may be as few as two days or as many as 17.
Industry Protection
Chicken farmers are taking radical steps to keep their investment safe. Disinfectant sprays are beginning to be applied and sterile clothing is becoming common when entering poultry facilities. Symptoms that include bird inactivity and decreased egg production are routinely reviewed and monitored.
What If?
Members of the World Health Organization have worked to develop a plan that could be implemented on a global scale to address both current issues as well as those that may be forthcoming in the event of a 'bird flu' pandemic. Steps are currently being taken to address the issues surrounding 'bird flu' and partner countries are gaining assistance from the findings of the World Health Organization.
Flu Shot
It is unclear if the annual flu shot will assist in the reduction of 'bird flu' cases should a pandemic occur. However, there is evidence to suggest they it may in fact do so.
It may be that 'bird flu' will never reach epidemic proportions, but knowing what it is and what it is capable of doing is a help in preparing for a flu strain that could join the ranks of some of the world's greatest viral killers.
The best prevention of the bird flu is a strong immune system. Exercise the body and the lungs. Look for a natural antiviral supplement. While modern scientist search for a vaccine, we have natural remedies that we can employ. Colloidal silver is known to kill bacteria and virus.
Tamiflu – A New Approved Flu Treatment and Prevention Medication
What is Tamiflu?
Tamiflu (oseltamivir) is an anti-viral medication that is used for the treatment and prevention of influenza (flu virus), including avian influenza (bird flu). Available in both tablet form and as a suspension, Tamiflu can be given to adults and children more than 1year of age who present with flu symptoms. But, Tamiflu is known to work effectively when the flu treatment is initiated within two days of the first onset of symptoms. In addition, Tamiflu can be used as a preventive treatment also.
For adults and adolescents 13 years or older, the recommended oral dose is 75mg oseltamivir twice daily, for 5 days. For children one year or older, Tamiflu oral suspension is available. Children with body weight of 40 kg and above may be prescribed the adult dosage of 75mg twice daily for 5 days. Tamiflu:
• Can ease ailments that accompany flu (like weakness, cough, headache, fever, sore throat)
• Could prevent the flu onset even if the patient has been exposed to someone who suffers from it
Tamiflu works by inhibiting the neuraminidase enzyme that stops the spread of the virus to other cells in the body. Tamiflu is available for the treatment of influenza in more than 80 countries worldwide.
Who should buy Tamiflu?
People who are eligible to take Tamiflu are:
• People who do not have any kidney disease, liver disease, viral infections besides influenza A / B, heart problems, lung problems or any other chronic or serious illnesses
• Pregnant mothers should not use Tamiflu
• As it is not known whether Tamiflu passes into breast milk, it cannot be used by nursing mothers
• Infants above the age of one year
• People who complain of uncomplicated acute illness due to influenza infection and show symptoms for no more than 2 days
What is the correct dosage of Tamiflu?
In the case of the influenza treatment, the correct dosage of Tamiflu is:
• One 75mg capsule twice a day for 5 days
• One 30-75mg capsule, depending on body weight, for children twice a day for 5 days (The correct dose of the drug for children should be set by a pediatrician)
In the case of influenza's prophylactic treatment, the dosage is:
• One 75mg capsule of Tamiflu for adults once a day for 7 days
• The correct dose of the drug for children should be set by a pediatrician
For children 1 year or older or for adults who can't swallow a Tamiflu capsule, Tamiflu oral suspension can be taken. If Tamiflu overdose is suspected, medical attention must be sought immediately. In addition, Tamiflu doses should not be missed. If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible, provided that it is not about time for the next Tamiflu dose. Do not double dose on Tamiflu, that is, two doses of the drug separated by less than 2 hours from one another.
How effective is Tamiflu for Influenza?
Tamiflu (oseltamivir) considerably reduces illness severity and duration in children one year and older, particularly if they are medicated within 24 hours of the onset of symptoms. In addition, Tamiflu is known to reduce the incidence of respiratory tract infections, ear infections and antibiotic use. Moreover, Tamiflu (oseltamivir) capsules are now available in 30mg and 45mg doses, especially for children.
Children tend to be major carriers of the influenza virus as they have limited pre-existing immunity, often spend time in groups and share germs easily. Tamiflu can reassuringly be used for the management of influenza in children as young as one year old. In clinical studies, Tamiflu was well tolerated and did not increase the risk for neuropsychiatric adverse events.
Tamiflu when initiated within 48 hours of onset is known to:
• Reduce influenza severity by almost a third (29%)
• Reduce the duration of the illness by a quarter (26%)
Furthermore, new data reveals that if Tamiflu is taken within 24 hours of symptom onset:
• The influenza severity is halved (52%)
• Illness duration is reduced by a third (34%)00
• There was a 55% reduction in severe ear infections (otitis media)
• Reduced the incidence of secondary influenza infections by 55%
Where to buy Tamiflu?
Tamiflu can either be bought from an online source or from a conventional pharmacy near your home. In order to Buy Tamiflu from an internet pharmacy, the quantity and dose can be selected from a chart to make the purchase online. Before you Buy Tamiflu online make sure you first read through all of the product information, including drug side effects so that you can make an informed choice.
Since Tamiflu is a prescription medication, you will need to consult an online doctor, who will go through your medical history and then decide if you can take Tamiflu. Many websites offer Tamiflu online but it is not advisable to purchase it before proper medical approval.
Tamiflu has been proved to be the most effective drug for human consumption against the avian influenza that has afflicted a number of countries in south Asia.
How much does it cost?
Because of strict internet policies, we are not allowed to publish the prices of any prescription medication prior to an online consultation with one of our doctors. But we are equally confident that you will not find Tamiflu cheaper elsewhere in the UK.
Bird Flu-Worst-Case Scenario
There has been a lot of buzz about bird flu or the avian influenza and how it could become a global pandemic. What would a pandemic really mean? The federal government just launched a 7 billion dollar program to help the prevention and out break of a bird flu pandemic. There have only been 83 deaths from avian flu worldwide since 2003. Health experts have not yet seen evidence of human to human transmission. So what does it mean? And why is everyone so worried about a pandemic?
This new strain of flu virus would be more resistant than other normal flu strains and if it turns into a form that passes easily from person to person, we would have little immunity to it. Millions could become ill and millions would die. Once it starts to spread it could move rapidly around the world infecting millions and affecting the lives of everyone. The World Bank, which has estimated that a bird flu pandemic lasting a year could, cost the global economy up to $800 billion. The economic toll on the world economy will be catastrophic. What is the worst-case scenario and how might it develop?
Here is how a bird flu pandemic might unfold:
Outbreaks of avian flu in birds continue in several additional countries outside of Southeast Asia including Russia, Africa and the Middle East
Human cases of bird flu increase
Health experts confirm first human-to-human transmissions
Flu screening is stepped up at airports around the world for passengers coming from infected countries
Health care workers show signs of increased exposure
Air travel spreads virus to all corners of the globe within 3 months
First confirmed human transmission cases appear in Europe Russia, and the United States
Outbreaks continue, becoming more widespread reaching epidemic status
Regional stockpiles of antivirals quickly dwindle, new high volume production and distribution is 6 months off
International flights are reduced or eliminated to help contain spread of the flu
Billions are lost on international commerce, affecting millions of jobs around the world
US imports from Asian factories halted as Asian workers fall ill, US inventories drop
International trade devastated
US economy feels effects of loss of productivity due to millions of workers out sick
Financial markets hit by panic selling, gold prices soar
Run on banks as investors convert to cash
Hospitals see surge in flu patients overwhelming staff and supplies, only those most likely to live given access to limited available ventilators
Healthcare workers and first responders out sick or stay home to care for ill family members
Public events are canceled and schools are closed
Government offices closed, non essential services shut down
Social services reduced or eliminated. Services still functioning are overwhelmed
Public transportation halted
Air traffic halted due to air traffic controllers, airport staff and flight crews out sick
Interstate commerce greatly reduced with truck drivers, warehouse and rail workers out sick
Food deliveries, gas deliveries, other essential supplies all reduced or eliminated
Grocery stores close due to shipments being eliminated
Food distribution chain from farm to stores breaks down
Travel restricted, quarantines mandatory, enforced by National Guard
Widespread looting and riots over food shortages and access to healthcare
Local, State police and National Guard overwhelmed
Social structure breaks down
Domestic violence increases as people are forced to stay home
Loss of workers affects all businesses across the economy, including finance, sanitation, utilities, internet, distribution, energy, retail, tourism and travel
Utility outages increase as coal shipments are reduced and minimum required staffs at power plants and water plants are out sick
Funeral homes are overwhelmed as bodies stack up
2nd wave of pandemic bird flu hits
Global economy will take years to recover from catastrophic losses and loss of trained employees who died
Does the above scare you? Think it won't happen? Well this is the exact scenario your local, state and federal governments are training and planning for. How would you survive? It has always been recommended to keep 3 days of supplies on hand to survive a natural disaster. We have seen how the federal government handles natural disasters. The above scenario isn
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