The swine flu, also known as H1N1, first appeared in the United States in 2009. It was initially passed from infected pigs to humans who came into direct contact with the infected animals. Over time, the genes that cause the swine flu virus combined with the genes of viruses that cause the flu in humans. This allowed the virus to change so it could be spread from person to person. This "human" H1N1 flu is a combination of human, swine and avian flu viruses. To help prevent getting sick with this illness, it is important to take steps to lower swine flu risks.
Crowded Areas
Being in crowded areas increases the risk of developing all kinds of illnesses, including the swine flu. Outbreaks can occur in schools, hospitals, colleges and other public areas, where there is a higher risk of coming into contact with an infected person, states the Mayo Clinic. Avoiding crowded areas is your best bet. If that is not possible, then take a few precautions, including being careful about touching surfaces that may be infected, avoiding touching the face with the hands and using good hand-washing techniques.
Travel to Infected Areas
Individuals traveling to certain areas where this disease is more active should consider getting vaccinated first, warns the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This includes the Caribbean, West Africa, South and Southeast Asia, the Southern and Western regions of India and the Western regions of Africa.
Underlying Medical Conditions
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, individuals with chronic medical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, COPD, kidney disease and conditions that compromise the immune system are at a higher risk of developing the swine flu. The risk is also greater for the elderly and pregnant women. These individuals should be monitored closely and instructed in how to take extra precautions to avoid getting sick, especially during flu season.
