H1N1 (Influenza A) vs Common Flu
Today, we went to Clinic to see the Doctor Tan to check up and make sure no H1N1 because we have minor Flu. We are not sure is this the common Flu or H1N1 (Influenza A), as we don’t know the H1N1 symptom. Scary! Especially for children!
Doctor Tan asked us not need to worry too much now as this is under control. If we know it early and go to Government Hospital, then they will test our blood (positive or negative for H1N1). If positive, then we need to admit and Doctor will give us ‘Tamil Flu’ then monitor it for a week. Can we take the ‘Tamil Flu’ as precaution first? No, it has the site effect and even Doctors doesn’t take it unless they are affected by H1N1 viruses.
H1N1 viruses can be spread through droplets from person has cough, speak or sneeze. Even you will be infected through your hand if you have touch the contaminated surface then follow by your nose or mouth.
How to differentiate the H1N1 (Influenza A) and Common Flu? This is a key for us to know the H1N1 symptom before too late. You can refer to Influenza A H1N1 High Risk Group and H1N1 Symptoms as well.
| Symptom | H1N1 | Common Flu |
| High Fever | Usually above 38C | Low and below 38C |
| Severe Fatigue | Lasting up to 2 ~ 3 weeks | Very mild |
| Muscle / Joint Ache | Moderate to severe | Mild |
| Cough | Severe, without phlegm in the beginning | Non/ Mild |
| Cold / Runny Nose | None / Mild | Severe |
| Sneezing | Frequent | Occasionally |
| Sore Throat | Moderate to severe | None / Mild |
| Headache | Moderate to severe | Mild |
| Cause | Virus Influenza A, B or C | Adenovirus, Rhino virus, Para influenza virus, Corona virus |
So, it mean that the symptoms of H1N1 are like regular flu symptoms and include fever (fever will remains at temperature higher than 38'C), cough, sore throat, runny nose, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue. Many people with H1N1 have had diarrhea and vomiting.
Actually, there are more people affected by H1N1 viruses, and you will not know they just around you. Try not to bring your children to crowded places, especially airport, hospital (unless needed), tourist areas, hypermarket and public toilet. Although the Influenza A (H1N1) virus only live on air around 2 ~ 20 hours, but if those people (with positive one) then you can get the H1N1 easily. If you just travel back from other countries, then try to quarantine yourself for few days, and people will really appreciate for you. If you are sick, then don't go out, to work or school.
Always take care your hygiene:-
1. Wash your hand more often before you touch your mouth, nose or eyes.
2. Use the tissue paper to cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze, then throw the issue paper into dustbin immediately.
3. Try walk or turn away when you want to cough or sneeze.There are more than 27K people affected by H1N1 now based on 4/July/2009 records. You can get more information from this Malaysia government website: http://h1n1.moh.gov.my/ but is in Malay language. You need to get someone to translate it for you.
You can refer to - Why Are Viruses And Bacteria Different?
Know it First! Cure it Fast! DON'T BE TOO LATE!
