Scholars Bulletin (SB)
Volume-1 | Issue-02 | 2015, 1(2): 27-32
Research Article
Global Pandemic Strain of Swine-Origin Influenza A (H1N1) Virus
Suresh Rewar
Published : Aug. 15, 2015
Abstract
Swine Influenza is a respiratory disease of pig caused by Type A influenza viruses. H1N1 is an Influenza A
virus. Influenza viruses are able to infect humans, swine, and avian species, and swine have long been considered a
potential source of new influenza viruses that can infect humans. Swine has been believed to play a vital role in
interspecies transmission of influenza viruses. Influenza A causes moderate to severe illness and affects all age groups.
The WHO declared the H1N1 pandemic on June 11, 2009, after more than 70 countries reported 30000 cases of H1N1
infection. In 2015 the instances of Swine Flu substantially increased to five year highs with over 10000 cases reported
and 774 deaths in India. The CDC recommends real time PCR as the method of choice for diagnosing H1N1. Prevention
of swine influenza has three components: prevention in swine, prevention of transmission to humans, and prevention of
its spread among humans. If a person becomes sick with swine flu, antiviral drugs can make the illness milder and make
the patient feel better faster. Antiviral drugs are most effective if they are started within the first 48 hours after the
clinical signs begin. CDC recommends the use of Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) or Zanamivir (Relenza) for the treatment. In this
review, a brief overview on swine flu is presented highlighting the characteristics of the causative virus, the disease and
its advances made in its diagnosis, control and Treatment to be adapted in the wake of an outbreak.