H1N1 Virus (Swine Flu): Causes, Symptoms And Effective Remedies To Deal With It

H1N1 or commonly called as the "swine flu" influenza is a contagious respiratory disease that causes symptoms of the seasonal influenza in people. This common flu was first recognized in the year 2009. The virus can be transmitted to humans when they come in contact with the infected pigs or environments which are contaminated with swine influenza viruses. Several studies have showed that in this flu; virus is made up of genes that were very similar to the ones that caused influenza among swine (pigs). Just like humans, pigs can even get the flu. However, we now know that the H1N1 flu virus is made up of genes from several different flu viruses which normally circulate among pigs, birds and humans. Similar to the regular flu, swine flu can lead to some serious illnesses like lung infection, pneumonia and other breathing problems. Also, the flu can make an illness even more worse like diabetes or asthma.

Also read: Swine Flu: 7 Best Home Remedies

Causes of H1N1 virus are:

H1N1 influenza virus primarily infects the cells in your nose, throat and lungs. The virus enters your body when you inhale contaminated droplets or transfer live virus from a contaminated surface to your eyes, nose or mouth.

Some common symptoms of H1N1 virus are:

•  Cold
•  Sore throat
•  Running nose
•  High fever
•  Watery, red and itchy eyes
•  Body ache
•  Felling cold all the time
•  Chilly
•  Cough
•  Dizziness
•  Shortness of breath
•  Vomiting

Some effective home remedies if you are suffering from H1N1 virus:

1. Stay at home

It is always better to stay at home if you are not well. As it is contagious, H1N1 or swine flu can be transmitted to others as well. Therefore, you should stay at home for till the time you don't have fever.

2. Wash your hands frequently

 In case you are suffering from swine flu you should make sure that you wash your hands properly and frequently. Wash you hands, especially, before eating your meals. 

Also read: H1N1 Claims 57 Lives In Kerala: Man-Made Disaster?

3. Coughs and sneezes

 It is quite possible that while suffering from the flu you cough and sneeze quite often. For this, it is always better that you cover your face with a mask. This will help you avoid contaminating your hands. Also change your handkerchiefs and tissue quite often.

4. Avoid contact

If possible, stay away from crowds. Also keep in mind that if you are at a high risk of complications from the flu (for instance, if you are younger than five years of age, older than 65 years of age, or pregnant) you should avoid going to crowded and public places.

5. Liquids

You should drink plenty of fluids during this illness in order to avoid dehydration. Warm soups, water, fresh fruit and vegetable juices will help you keep hydrated all day long.

Adequate rest is extremely essential if you are suffering from any chronic illness. Sleep as much as you can as it will help boost immunity which will in turn help your body fight infection.

Also read: Zika Virus: The Dos And Don'ts

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.