ALERT AGAINST HINI IN KOLLAM DISTRICT

ALERT AGAINST HINI IN KOLLAM DISTRICT

An alert against H1N1influenza in the  Kollam district has been issued by District Medical Officer K. Salila. H1N1 influenza is a contagious respiratory disease that causes symptoms similar to those of seasonal influenza.H1N1 flu is caused by a virus. The most common subtype, or strain, is influenza type A H1N1, and this subtype causes infection.

The letters H and N in the subtype name stand for proteins found on the surface of the virus that are used to distinguish between different subtypes.A person infected with H1N1 flu virus can infect others starting a day before symptoms develop and up to seven or more days after becoming ill. H1N1 influenza is spread from person to person when the virus enters the body through the eyes, nose, or mouth. Coughing and sneezing release the viruses into the air from where they can be breathed in by others.

Dr. Salila said the symptoms of HIN1 flu are very similar to those of seasonal influenza. People with H1N1 flu may experience body aches, chills, coughs, fatigue, fever, headache, loss of appetite, and sore throat. Some people with H1N1 flu virus have also reported vomiting and diarrhoea. Those with symptoms of H1N1 flu should avoid contact with others. The infected persons should wash their hands frequently and follow respiratory hygiene practices. Cups and other utensils used by them should be thoroughly washed with soap and water before they are used by other persons.

Prof. John Kurakar