WHO Issues Swine Flu Warning After Man Contracts Virus; Signs, Symptoms And More About H1N1 Flu

who issues swine flu warning after man contracts virus; signs, symptoms and more about h1n1 flu

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a warning after a man in Spain tested positive for a serious type of swine flu. WHO officials were notified about the case on January 29, 2024, by the Spanish health authorities. This is the third case of human infection with influenza A(H1N1)v virus that has been reported in Spain. The first case was reported in 2008 and the second case was reported in January 2023.

According to the International Health Regulations (IHR) 2005, a human infection caused by a novel influenza A virus subtype is an event that has the potential for high public health impact and must be notified to the WHO.

WHO in a statement said that the patient is an adult male who worked on a pig farm in the province of Lleida and was confirmed positive through sample testing and sequencing. “The patient, who has completely recovered, developed symptoms on 25 November 2023. These included fever, malaise, and cough.”

WHO says that most human cases with influenza A(H1N1)v virus infection result from exposure to swine influenza viruses through direct or indirect contact with infected swine or contaminated environments. However, some cases have been reported without an apparent source of exposure to swine in the weeks prior to illness onset.

“Because these viruses continue to be detected in swine populations worldwide, further human cases following direct or indirect contact with infected swine can be expected. Swine variant cases have been reported in recent years from many countries, including in Europe,” says WHO.

What is swine flu?

Swine flu which is also known as H1N1 flu is a type of influenza A virus. Mayo Clinic says that during the 2009-10 flu season, a new H1N1 virus began causing illness in humans. It was often called swine flu and was a new combination of influenza viruses that infect pigs, birds and humans. Most people with flu get better on their own. However, complications of the flu can be severe for some people and for people at high risk, it can be fatal.

Signs and symptoms of swine flu

The signs of swine flu are similar to those of other flu viruses. Here, take a look at some of the common signs of flu:

• Fever, but not always
• Aching muscles
• Chills and sweats
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Watery, red eyes
• Eye pain
• Body aches
• Headache
• Tiredness and weakness
• Diarrhoea
• Feeling sick to the stomach, and vomiting but this is more common in children than adults.

Complications that can arise due to swine flu

Worsening of chronic conditions, such as heart disease and asthma

• Pneumonia
• Neurological symptoms, ranging from confusion to seizures
• Respiratory failure
• Bronchitis
• Muscle tenderness
• Bacterial infections.

Preventive measures for swine flu

Preventing swine flu involves vaccination, good hygiene practices and minimizing exposure to the virus. Annual flu vaccinations are important, especially for people who have a high risk of contracting the virus. This improves their immunity against swine flu strains.

Practising frequent handwashing with soap and water, using alcohol-based sanitizers and covering coughs and sneezes. Also, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, staying home when ill and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces help prevent transmission.