WHO says the dreaded virus can spread through human contact, but there is no need to panic
WHO says the dreaded virus can spread throughu00a0 human contact, but there is no need to panic
It's a good thing netas greet you with folded hands because for the next few months, handshakes are a big no-no. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has now declared a phase five alert for swine flu, as it has found that the virus can be transmitted from human contact leading to outbreaks in communities.
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A WHO spokesperson in an e-mail response to MiD DAY queries said that swine flu is believed to spread in the same way as seasonal flu. "Swine flu can spread through direct contact or indirect contact (touching a contaminated surface). The public should avoid shaking hands; everyone needs to practice proper cough etiquette and use handkerchiefs to cover their mouths when coughing. They should wash their hands frequently. Those unwell with a running nose, fever and body ache, should see physicians and rest at home," he advised.
The BMC has already reserved 20 beds at Kasturba Hospital. "We have made all the arrangements to tackle the situation," said Jairaj Thanekar, BMC's executive health officer.
Even as swine flu spreads to more countries, travel agents remain optimistic. "We are operating our Mexico tour as usual," said a spokesperson for Thomas Cook. "We are closely monitoring the situation with the help of the Federation of Tour Operators. Reports show that the tourist spots are not affected by this outbreak. Normal booking conditions do apply but if customers are concerned we advise them to speak to their general practitioners about vaccinations or symptoms," added the spokesperson.
What is swine flu?
Swine influenza or swine flu is a highly contagious acute respiratory disease, which occurs in pigs. It is caused by one of several swine influenza A viruses. Generally, clinical symptoms are similar to seasonal influenza, but they can range from asymptomatic infection to severe pneumonia resulting in death. Swine flu cases have been reported in the United States, Mexico, Canada and Israel.
8
The number of swine flu deaths reported so far (7 in Mexico and 1 in US), according to WHO
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