12 Facts About the Swine Influenza Virus

On April 25, 2009, the World Health Organization (WHO) warned that an outbreak of Swine Influenza in Mexico and the United States could become a pandemic. There are reports that the outbreak may be labeled an event of "global concern" by WHO, which could prompt travel restrictions to and from affected area.

Twelve Facts about Swine Influenza

1. Caught through direct contact with pigs.

2. Can also be transmitted be spread from human to human.

3. Cannot be contracted by eating pork products.

4. Usually, one human case reported in U.S. every 1 to 2 years.

5. New strain reported in 2009.

6. Symptoms of new strain are similar to those of regular flu.

7. New strain more resistant to anti-viral medicines.

8. Over 100 new cases reported in April 2009.

9. Cases reported in Mexico, California and Texas.

10. Reported death toll as of April 24, 2009: 68.

11. None of the Americans affected in 2009 had had direct contact with pigs.

12. 250 cases reported in 1976 outbreak.

U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has warned that the outbreak cannot be contained and reported eight confirmed cases in California and Texas.

Video on Mexico Flu Deaths Raise Global Epidemic Fears




Source: Mahalo.com