Influenza A (H1N1) was initially called swine flu. The name "swine flu" was initially used to describe this type of influenza because laboratory tests showed that this strain of flu virus was made up of genes that were very similar to the ones that caused influenza among pigs (swine). Just like humans, pigs can get the flu. However, we now know that the H1N1 flu virus is made up of genes from several different flu viruses that normally circulate among pigs, birds, and humans. In June 2009, the WHO declared Influenza A (H1N1) a global pandemic. This new strain now exists in many communities all over the world. Influenza A (H1N1) is a virus subtype of influenza that affects human beings. In 2009, Malaysia was also affected Influenza A H1N1. Five people died in Malaysia due to this influenza. Therefore, to make sure that this pandemic does not happen again and to prevent it, FKE OSH committee provides information about this pandemic to student and staff.

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The symptoms of Influenza A (H1N1) are:

 

1) High fever (Temperature > 38 C)

2) Cough

3) Muscle pains

4) Sore throat

5) Fatigue or tiredness

6) Headache

7) Nausea

8) Vomiting or diarrhea.

 

Tips on travelling to countries hardly hit by H1N1:

 

1) Before traveling to the affected countries, learn about the risks and measures to avoid them. Tell about it to those who join you (your children and your spouse) as well.

 

2) Make sure your medical insurance is up to date and valid, and know how to use it. You need to know how to get health assistance during your trip

 

3) If you are sick, delay your travel

4) While traveling in the affected countries, refrain from unnecessarily being in an area where there are a lot of people. 

 

5) For those who shows symptoms of H1N1 after travelling, seek medical attention immediately.

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To prevent the H1N1 pandemic the student or staff should:

 

1) Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough

 

2) Wash your hands regularly and thoroughly with soap and water

 

3) Take more fruit and vegetables. Fruit and vegetables are the most power-packed combination of nutrients        your body needs for good health

 

4) Drink the equivalent of 8 glasses of fluid daily.

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If you are living with someone who is infected:

 

1) Do not have meals together with the ill person as masks have to be removed during meals

 

2) Wear a surgical mask and remain at a distance of at least 2 meters from one another if you need to                      communicate with the ill person

 

3) Try to avoid close contact with sick people.