Influenza A H1N1: who are the groups at risk?

Influenza A H1N1: who are the groups at risk? We know today, influenza A H1N1, known as Mexican or swine, is not very serious for most people. However, it is dangerous for some people: those who are part of “risk groups”. These are not clear to everyone. Here’s an update.

Why is it flu deadly?

Common symptoms of influenza, whether it is H1N1 or another, are high temperature, cough,darkfall gold, a stuffy nose. And in seven days, it happens. How these symptoms happen to be thousands of deaths each year, which is the case with seasonal flu? Influenza A H1N1 is not yet as deadly as this, but the bar a thousand deaths in the world has been exceeded. And we are still far from the peak of the epidemic. The flu kills first most organizations already weakened. Indeed, the high fever and breathing difficulties are causing stress to which the body must resist. If it is already low, it may not take the shock. Other causes of mortality that occurs frequently in regard to influenza infections secondary. The respiratory tract affected by the virus become more hospitable to bacteria that settle after the flu itself. Bacterial pneumonia is a leading cause of death influenza.

Influenza A H1N1 and chronic diseases

The first risk group regarding influenza A H1N1 and other flu all the way, is that people with chronic illness. Mention first all heart disease and diabetes. These conditions, even if they are under control, may in fact deteriorate quickly under the effect of the flu, becoming very dangerous. Other diseases are pointing the finger all the respiratory ailments: chronic pulmonary obstructive or asthma are more frequent. The influenza attack because the airways. If they are already fragile, the damage may be even greater. Other diseases that may worsen the risks posed by bird: the renal and hepatic function, and all immunodeficiencies.

Pregnant women, children and elderly are most at risk

Another group at risk much talked about right now: pregnant women. They are, in fact overrepresented among victims of new influenza A H1N1. Young children and the elderly are traditionally more vulnerable to influenza. For the latter, however, there is one exception: the elderly, although more fragile, less catch influenza A H1N1 because they are more likely to have been exposed to a strain close. Their immune system could protect the … So this is not the case for younger.

How to protect against influenza A H1N1 when it belongs to a group at risk?

For everybody, the methods of protection against influenza A H1N1 is the same. This is to avoid contact with sick people, to maintain a healthy lifestyle (avoid fatigue and stress intensity), and mostly very regularly wash hands with soap, or if it is not possible to use an antibacterial cleansing gel. If you have symptoms compatible with influenza (abrupt rise of temperature, cough) and you’re part of a group at risk, consult your doctor who will evaluate whether to administer antiviral therapy.