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Watching Swine Flu Fly - 4th May 2009There is no way to discuss recent health news without at least touching on the outbreaks of swine flu cropping up in countries all over the world. Though at this point with only 19 confirmed deaths in Mexico rather than the original estimate of over 150; and people in other countries suffering with only mild cases the concern is decreasing.
I have found some links to sites that have interesting or useful info on the outbreak that I thought I might share…and save you doing the Google search yourself. In today’s news from stuff.co.nz there is a summary of swine flu statistics and an update on what is happening throughout the world. Since Friday Tamiflu has become available for purchase over the counter at pharmacies in NZ, and not just via prescription. Prospective buyers must be presenting symptoms of illness, and pharmacies have initiated various procedures as to how they assess people wanting to buy the drug. Tamiflu basically works by inhibiting an enzyme that viruses use in the process of releasing daughter viruses into the bloodstream after replicating. Corey Nahman, a pharmacist in the States has listed easy to understand information on Tamiflu on his website. He explains what it is, how it works, dosages, and history of the drug as well as listing other internet resources. There is growing concern over the risk of a viral strain developing that is resistant to Tamiflu. Pietro Vernazza, head of the infectious diseases department at a St Gallen hospital in Switzerland, warns that inappropriate use of the drug could increase the chance of resitance forming. Vernazza said the drug must not be used as a general prophylactic for the whole population, but should be administered within 12 hours of a patient showing flu symptoms. Leaving treatment too late would reduce its effectiveness and increase the chances of resistance. For more information on viruses in general, Canada’s CBC News has a useful list of Virus FAQs . Other than using Tamiflu as protection against this new flu virus, the advice basically follows the same lines as for seasonal flu: Wash hands regularlyAfter touching communal surfaces, don’t touch your face, eyes, nose or mouth without washing your handsStay well hydrated, drinking plenty of waterGet enough sleepKeep up with your exercise routineEat a healthy, balance diet that includes protein, whole grains and plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. By eating a diet that includes a variety of foods you are more likely to meet your vitamin and mineral needs, and that will contribute to your overall health — including a stronger immune system.If your diet is less than optimal, think about whether supplements such as vitamin C, a good multivitamin or greens such as Spirulina, barley grass or wheat grass may be helpful to you |
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