The news about the human Swine flu is buzzing everywhere. Have you heard about it yet? I learned that Swine influenza is a respiratory illness caused by type A influenza viruses present in pigs. (Pigs are also called hogs or swine.)

According to reports, the Swine flu cases continues to grow in the United States and internationally. Because of this, the World Health Organization has raised the worldwide pandemic alert level to Phase 4. This means that there has been verified and sustained human-to-human transmission of an animal or human-animal influenza virus causing outbreaks.

The symptoms of Swine flu are are similar to regular human flu: fever, cough, sore throat, headache, body aches, chills, fatigue. There are also reports that Swine flu causes diarrhea, and vomiting. To learn more about the Swine Flu virus and prevention, you can read the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) articles about the Key Facts about Swine Influenza(Swine Flu) and the Interim Guidance on Antiviral Recommendations for Patients with Confirmed or Suspected Swine Influenza A (H1N1) Virus Infection and Close Contacts. The Nursingcenter.com also posted a Special Report: Swine Flu Update

There is no vaccine available right now to protect against swine flu. It is important to take safety precautions to prevent contamination. Wash your hands often, cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze or when you’re in close contact with sick people.