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Although the name 'swine flu' brings up a lot of extra fear and worry, it is important to note that swine flu is just an influenza A H1N1 virus. The big difference is that the current swine influenza A (H1N1) virus has components of pig and bird influenza viruses in it, so that humans don't have any immunity to it. That is what made it more likely that it would become a pandemic virus (have the ability to cause a global outbreak) because it could easily spread from person-to-person.

The Swine flu has been compared to other similar types of influenza virus in terms of mortality: "in the US it appears that

for every 1000 people who get infected, about 40 people need admission to hospital and about one person dies".

Fever, which is usually high, but unlike seasonal flu, is sometimes absent Cough Runny nose or stuffy nose Sore throat Body aches Headache Chills Fatigue or tiredness, which can be extreme Diarrhoea and vomiting, sometimes, but more commonly seen than with seasonal flu :- Signs of a more serious swine flu infection might include pneumonia and respiratory failure.

Swine flu high risk groups, people who are thought to be at risk for serious, life-threatening infections, are a

little different and can include:

Pregnant women

People with chronic medical problems, such as chronic lung disease, like asthma, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and immune suppression

Children and adults with obesity

The deadly Swine Flu has reached the Indian shores following the global outbreak and now, claimed one life. However, Swine Flu is certainly one of those diseased where an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Here are five tips for you to keep away from the pandemic

Use the antibacterial soaps to cleanse your hands. Wash them often, for at least 15 seconds and rinse with running water.

Try to get 8 hours of good sleep every night to keep your immune system in top flu-fighting shape.

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The government is taking necessary steps to prevent the pandemic and periodically release guidelines to keep the pandemic away. Please make sure to keep up to date on the information and act in a calm manner.

WHO does not expect the