Influenza A / H1N1

MAPFRE ESPAÑA is closely monitoring the information regarding cases of influenza caused by the new Virus A (H1N1) in order to understand the development among the population and protect the health of its employees and policyholders, complying with the recommendations of the European Center for the Prevention and Control of Disease, of the World Health Organization and the Ministry of Health and Social Policy, which are the competent institutions for monitoring the national and international evolution of influenza cases.

All organisms classify the status of Influenza A / H1N1 as a moderate pandemic. Most people recover from the infection without the need for hospitalization or medical attention.

What is Flu A / H1N1?

New Flu or Influenza A / H1N1 has been called a flu produced by a new subtype of the influenza virus that affects humans and which, according to a study published in the latest issue of the New England Journal of Medicine, is an evolutionary adaptation of the swine virus, which already in 1918 produced an influenza pandemic.

The risk of contracting the New Flu or Influenza A / H1N1 is greater precisely because it is a new subtype of virus against which we are not immunized.

Despite the fact that the risk of contagion is greater, in most cases the disease presents a mild picture and is cured in a week without the need for hospital admission by taking ordinary medication to treat the common flu. It has a lower mortality rate or similar to that of the common flu, focused on frail patients and / or those with chronic diseases.

How is the disease transmitted?

The influenza A / H1N1 virus is transmitted in the same way as the common influenza virus, through the respiratory route by coughing or sneezing in close contact (less than 1 meter) with sick people.

What are the symptoms?

The symptoms are similar to:

• Fever over 38 ºC
• General discomfort
• Cough
• Throat pain
• Increased runny nose
• muscle pains
• It can also cause nausea and diarrhea.

Which is the treatment?

It is a virus infection that requires the same general measures as the common flu: drinking fluids and taking pain relievers for fever. antivirals such as oseltamivir and zanamivir are used, but always under prescription.

According to the Ministry of Health, Spain has a reserve of antivirals of ten million treatments, which are already being used in the cases in which it is indicated. Some antiviral medications can be used to decrease the period of transmission of the disease.

Currently the influenza A / H1N1 vaccine is not commercialized, it is expected that it may be by the end of the year. It is advisable to get vaccinated against the common or seasonal flu in the usual period due to the cross-protection effect.

If you have any questions, consult your Family Doctor.

How to avoid contagion?

To prevent contagion and spread, you simply have to maintain normal hygiene habits:

• Covering your mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing
• Wash hands frequently with soap and water
• Do not share cutlery or glasses
• Ventilate the house, rooms and common spaces daily
• Clean the surfaces and objects of common use with the usual cleaning products

Practicing other good hygiene habits like getting enough sleep, exercising, managing stress, drinking plenty of fluids, and a balanced nutritious diet help keep you healthy.