Swine Flu is spreading rapidly and with 40 more deaths the toll from the disease has now reached 1,115 while the total number of affected has crossed the 20,000 mark according to a Zee News report. This is the worst Swine Flu outbreak in the last five years in India.

According to health department officials, the weather change is conducive for spread of the H1N1 virus and public gatherings during Holi celebrations this week may result in escalation of cases.

The virus is known to thrive and spread during monsoon and due to the recent heavy rainfall in northern India the possibility of a decrease in virus has gone down. High temperatures are a deterrent for the Swine Flu virus. According to the latest data, Gujarat is the most affected where 275 people have died and 4,614 have contracted the disease. Rajasthan follows next with 267 dead and 5,610 affected; Madhya Pradesh with 160 dead, 1,054 affected; Maharashtra's toll at 152 with 1,789 reported cases. Delhi's toll stands at 10 and 2,999 people are swine flu positive. In Vadodara, Section 144 of CrPC has been imposed that restricts movement of people in groups to discourage crowd gathering in places. With the disease spreading rapidly, an ongoing change of weather, and an outbreak of this magnitude, it is essential to take precaution, especially on Holi. This Holi greet from a distance and avoid the hug!

Swine Flu: Five myths and cautions if you are infected

What causes Swine Flu?

It is an air-borne, respiratory disease caused by a swine influenza virus commonly known as H1N1. There are other subtypes also like - H1N2, H1N3, H3N1, H3N2 and H2N3 which can also be the reasons of flu.
Most importantly, it transmits from person to person through the same medium as other flu viruses. It spreads through saliva and mucus particles.

Most vulnerable to Swine Flu

* Individuals having any other respiratory condition like pneumonia
* Pregnant women
* People suffering from chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes
* People more than 65 years of age and children younger than 2 years

Also Read: Vitamin D can boost resistance against Swine flu
How to prevent Swine Flu, especially on Holi

1. Wash your hands throughout the day with soap and water. Alternatively, use an alcohol-based sanitizer.
2. Avoid people who are sick or having cold or cough.
3. Don’t touch your eyes, nose or mouth.
4. Keep your face covered with a mask, if possible. Keep it covered especially while sneezing or coughing.
5. Eat immune-boosting foods like whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, and other vitamin-rich foods.
6. Drink sufficient water.
7. If you still fall victim to the disease, vaccines are available at every hospital which include: Antiviral medications – Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and Zanamivir (Relenza) which help relieve symptoms and reduce the risk of serious complications.
8. Consult a doctor.
9. Additionally, avoid damp, humid locations on the day of Holi and avoid remaining wet for a very long period of time.