"African swine fever is a type of virus that can cause swine flu. It turns out that this virus is different from the H1N1 virus, but both can cause swine flu."
Swine flu or swine flu is an infection caused by the H1N1 type of flu (influenza) virus. Well, H1N1 is included in the category of influenza A virus, just like the type of virus that causes seasonal flu.
Recently, dozens of dead pigs were found in Kupang, East
Nusa Tenggara. Swine flu infection was allegedly the main cause. So, can swine
flu be transmitted to humans? Check out the full facts below! Can African Swine
Flu Be Transmitted to Humans?
The cause of death for dozens of pigs in Kupang was due to African swine fever (ASF) or the African swine fever virus. This type of virus is indeed quite deadly for pigs and is very easily transmitted.
The route of transmission can be through physical contact between healthy pigs and infected pigs.
Until now, there is no medicine that can cure this disease. In fact, the virus can survive in the external environment and is relatively strong against exposure to disinfectants.
The Indonesian Ministry of Health ensures that ASF does not harm humans. This is because this virus is not included in the category of zoonotic diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans.
So, pork products are still safe to eat as long as they are cooked well until fully cooked.
Beware of Swine Flu Caused by the H1N1 Virus
Swine flu caused by the H1N1 virus is something to watch out for. Because the infection is very similar to the common cold.
This virus attacks the cells in the walls of the nose, throat and lungs.
In addition, the mode of transmission was apparently not by consuming virus-infected pork.
The route of transmission is also similar to other influenza viruses, namely inhaling droplets sneezed or coughed from a person with swine flu.
A person can become infected if droplets of snot, saliva or sneeze from a person with swine flu sticks to the surface of the eyes, nose and mouth.
Within a few days, someone who is exposed will experience a series of symptoms.
Symptoms of swine flu caused by the H1N1 virus are also similar to other flu diseases, namely:
- Fever.
- Chills.
- Cough.
- Sore throat.
- Runny or stuffy nose.
- Watery, red eyes.
- aches.
- Headache.
- Fatigue.
- Diarrhea.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- The above symptoms usually appear about one to three days after exposure to the virus.
Actually, you also don't need to see a doctor if you still feel healthy and your symptoms range from mild. You just need to rest and take fever-reducing medication.
How to Prevent the Transmission of Swine Flu?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises those aged six months and over to get an annual flu shot.
The goal is to protect yourself from the 3-4 most common types of influenza viruses. Vaccination can reduce the severity and potential complications.
In addition to vaccines, you also need to take the following
preventive steps:
- Wash hands regularly, especially after using the toilet, before eating and when preparing food. Use soap and water when washing hands. If water is not available, use a 70 percent alcohol based hand sanitizer.
- Cover your mouth when coughing and sneezing into a tissue or elbow. Then immediately wash your hands with soap.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth, especially if you haven't washed your hands.
- Clean surfaces regularly to prevent the spread of viral infections.
- Avoid contact with people who are sick. Especially for someone who is in a vulnerable group, such as toddlers, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with chronic diseases.
- As much as possible avoid pig pens.
Have a health complaint? Immediately consult a doctor to get
the right diagnosis.