Elaboration on Swine Flu Myths

The swine flu is everywhere right now, social network sites, television, radio, etc., however there is a real potential for misinformation. Regrettably, some of the information out there is being misconstrued and  causing unnecessary panic. Are the actions being taken within the boundaries of safety, or are the overreactions caused but the myths circulated in the media? The following information will hopefully give you a piece of mind, while giving you an idea for a plan of action.

Myth #1- Swine flu can only infect you if you are in direct contact with a pig. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention state that in past cases of swine flu, it has only been contracted directly from pigs. Farmers or visitors at state fairs were likely candidates for swine flu. However, since it so closely resembles the Influenza Virus, it can be contracted from another person due to liquid droplets that get airborne from sneezing or coughing. You may even pick it up from a surface that an infected person has touched, only if the virus is still live.

Myth #2- You have the swine flu if you have any flu symptoms at all. This is unlikely, but if you have severe flu symptoms or a shortness of breath, check with your healthcare provider to be sure. Remember that those that have been diagnosed with swine flu currently are only showing mild symptoms. The Influenza Virus (seasonal) will likely put more people in the hospital than the swine flu.

Myth #3- Consuming pork products makes you vulnerable to the swine flu. As long as the pork products are handled and cooked properly (heated to an internal temp of 160F), then you then you will kill off most bacteria and viruses including the swine flu virus.

Myth #4- Your seasonal flu vaccination protects you from the swine flu. Note that the swine flu is a combination of influenza, avian, and swine viruses, so while the vaccination may help the human strain of it, it probably won't affect the other two forms.

Published by Risa Marks I go to school full-time all year around, I also work full-time in an office. I am super busy, but wouldn't have it any other way. When I have time, I love working on my artwork, and of course, online writing!  View profile
This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.