Swine Flu Update!

Hello Everybody,

We have been receiving many calls from people looking for more information about the swine flu. On April 26th, our recently departed Governor, and newly appointed Secretary of Homeland Security, Janet Napolitano, declared swine flu a public health emergency. She likened this declaration similar to those given when a hurricane is approaching. “It might not actually hit,” she stated “but (declaring an emergency) allows you to take a number of preparatory steps.” President Obama has called this action an “abundance of caution.”

As of today, there are 65 confirmed cases of swine flu in the U.S., with the vast majority of these cases being mild. So far, there has been only a single death which has confirmed to be the result of swine flu. This was a 23-month old child from Texas.

By comparison, seasonal influenza causes 35,000 deaths in the U.S. annually. The World Health Organization has stated that there have been several deaths attributed to the swine flu in Mexico.

There have been no cases reported in Arizona.

The symptoms of swine flu are indistinguishable from seasonal flu. These symptoms include fevers of greater than 100 degrees F (37.8 degrees C), and a cough and or sore throat, muscle aches, and possibly vomiting and diarrhea. Due to the fact that the symptoms of swine flu are so similar to seasonal flu, it is impossible to differentiate the two by symptoms alone. People who have recently traveled abroad, especially to Mexico, are encouraged to see their doctor. Tests for swine flu are available and are easily collected using a nasal swab. If you have a fever over 101 degrees F, and any of the symptoms listed above it would be a good idea to have a visit with your doctor.

You cannot contract swine flu from eating pork. The virus can be transmitted from pigs to people, and people to pigs. Human-to-human transmission of the virus is also possible, and this is thought to occur the same way that seasonal influenza spreads. Transmission of the virus may occur through the coughing or sneezing of an infected person. Transmission may also occur by touching objects with the flu virus on it and then touching their mouth or nose.

What you should do:
1. Be diligent about hygiene. Wash your hands frequently. I'm a big fan of the Citricidal Soap we carry at the office.
2. Use a Kleenex when you cough or sneeze. Then wash your hands again.
3. Try to avoid sick people. If your around sick people- wash your hands.
4. If you feel ill, stay home. This goes for your kids too. Wash their hands.

Prevent it!
There are many things that you can do from a Naturopathic standpoint that will help keep your immune system ready should it be needed. Many of you are undoubtedly familiar with Acute Immune, one of our favorite immune stimulators. We also have recently seen great results using Ultimate Defense Plus, a new anti-viral supplement that has been shown to inhibit viral cell attachment. Don’t forget about good old vitamin C! Taking 500mg every 3-4 hours is a great way to stimulate your immune system.

For more information about the swine flu check out the CDC’s website at:
http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/