Difference Between Epidemic and Pandemic Level Outbreaks – Medications & Precautions

Usual medications of influenza suppress the spread of the influenza virus when taken in correct and adequate doses. In children, anti-influenza vaccines are available in order to protect the young against the onslaught of the virus. In general, the best way in avoiding contracting influenza is through yearly vaccination. There is also a difference between epidemic and pandemic in terms of effective vaccination. However, this is not always practical. But there are of course some healthy practices to generally avoid the spread of the flu, and these include:

Avoiding close contact with sick people, and for sick people to isolate themselves from spreading the disease to others.

When you have influenza, make sure you get ample rest and refrain from going out of your home.

Covering your nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing to minimize the spread of the virus.

Regularly and frequently washing the hands to prevent the spread of germs.

Avoiding the touching of the eyes, nose, and mouth, in order to minimize the transmission of the virus causing germs.

Generally, it was discovered that most of the patients have only mild symptoms, but to the higher risk groups, such as people who have diabetes, asthma, heart ailments, those who are obese, pregnant women, and those who have a lowered immune system, there was basis for urgent concern. In extreme cases, the pattern of progression of the disease starts with a 3 to 5 days manifestation of the initial symptoms.

After this time, the patient’s health deteriorates fast, with the usual occurrence of respiratory failure within a day, and requiring immediate and intensive medical attention.

Similar to other influenza strains, the swine flu virus or AH1N1 virus is communicable through sneezing or coughing, or touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the eyes, nose, or mouth. This is the difference between epidemic and pandemic, as shown with the preceding examples of illnesses.

Now that you know what precautions and medications you need to protect your family and yourself from the H1N1 virus, click on the link below to get a FREE 45 page report that will show you how to Survive Pandemic Flu.