Costa Rica News – It has been reported in Costa Rica that there have been 10 Deaths From AH1N1 virus and there are 54 patients in 4 hospitals that have been diagnosed with the swine flu. But what do you need to know about this virus?
Swine flu is a highly contagious respiratory disease in pigs caused by one of several swine influenza A viruses (see the image below). Transmission of swine influenza viruses to humans is uncommon. However, the swine influenza virus can be transmitted to humans via contact with infected pigs or environments contaminated with swine influenza viruses.
Signs and Symptoms
Manifestations of H1N1 influenza are similar to those of seasonal influenza. Patients present with symptoms of acute respiratory illness, including at least 2 of the following:
In children, signs of severe disease include apnea, tachypnea, dyspnea, cyanosis, dehydration, altered mental status, and extreme irritability.
See Clinical Presentation for more detail.
Diagnosis
The CDC criteria for suspected H1N1 influenza are as follows :
See Workup for more detail.
Management
Treatment is largely supportive and consists of bedrest, increased fluid consumption, cough suppressants, and antipyretics and analgesics (eg, acetaminophen, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) for fever and myalgias. Severe cases may require intravenous hydration and other supportive measures. Antiviral agents may also be considered for treatment or prophylaxis.
If you suspect you are someone in your family has contracted the AH1N1 virus seek medical attention immediately.
From Medscape.com edited by Dan Stevens