Swine Influenza Virus, commonly known as Swine Flu or Pig Flu is a respiratory disease in pigs. It is very common, and in many cases usually goes away within a week. If contracted by humans, however, it can become deadly. There is currently an epidemic of Swine Flu taking place in Mexico City.

There is currently no evidence suggesting that the pig flu can be transmitted through food. Therefore, it is safe to eat properly cooked pig meat, since hot temperature kills all bacteria. Only people who come in close contact with infected animals are in danger of getting infected. Avoiding contact with ill animals and washing your hands after any contact with animal, will greatly decrease you chances of getting infected. If you develop flu like symptoms after close contact with pigs, make sure to let your doctor know as soon as possible. Doctors will perform a nose or throat swab to determent the type of viruses that you are infected with.

Swine flu can spread from infected person to other people. So if you find yourself in the area that has reports of cases of swine flu in humans try to avoid public places, protect your airway with a mask and wash your hands as often as possible.

If you think you might have been exposed to swine flu and begin to experience the following swine flu symptoms, see your doctor as soon as possible:

• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Discharge from the nose
• Fever
• Breathing Difficulties
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting

References

1. "Human Case of Swine Influenza A (H1N1) Triple Reassortant Virus Infection, Wisconsin." Emerging Infectious Dieses. 24 Apr. 2009 <http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=2603093>.

2. "Human Swine Influenza Investigation." Center for Disease Control and Prevention. 24 Apr. 2009 <http://www.cdc.gov/flu/swine/investigation.htm >.

3. "Swine Flu Outbreak Unnerves Mexico City." VOA News. 24 Apr. 2009 <http://www.voanews.com/english/2009-04-24-voa50.cfm>.

4. "Swine Influenza in Pigs and People Brochure." Center for Disease Control and Prevention. 24 Apr. 2009 <http://www.cdc.gov/flu/swine/pdf/brochure.pdf>.