In a new study, researchers in China disclosed that a new strain of swine flu (H1N1) have been found in Chinese farm pigs, but there’s no evidence to suggest that cancer patients are in immediate harm.
During a study surveying workers on 15 Chinese pig farms from 2011 to 2018, researchers collected blood samples from workers and residents of surrounding households. According to the findings, nearly 11% of farm workers and nearly 5% of other residents tested positive for a new strain of swine flu called G4 EA H1N1. Among workers who were between the ages of 18 and 35 years old, nearly 21% tested positive for the strain.
Read MoreShould Cancer Patients Be Worried About A New Strain Of Swine Flu?
According to research, the new strain of swine flu poses no imminent public threat at the moment. However, as many of us know, cancer patients are often immunocompromised during treatment, and are at significantly higher risk of having severe health problems if exposed to a virus. Exposure to H1N1 is typically through contact with farm animals, specifically pigs, but there are other ways you can stay healthyGuidance For Cancer Patients:
- Avoid contact with pigs, or locations with farm animals
- Wash hands regularly
- Learn more information about the virus
- Stay a safe distance away from those exposed to farm animals and wear a mask
- Talk to your doctor about possible exposure to the virus, and ask about preventative measures
What Is Swine Flu?
According to the CDC, Swine flu (also known as swine influenza or H1N1) is a respiratory disease that appears in pigs, which can be passed on to humans although it’s often uncommon. People who are diagnosed with swine flu often have had close contact with pigs, but in limited cases person-to-person contact has also caused the virus to spread. Symptoms of H1N1 are similar to the standard flu, with people exhibiting a fever, fatigue, lack of appetite and coughing.
While the disease is from close contact with pigs, the CDC states that eating properly prepared pork dishes has not be linked to swine flu cases. If you start exhibiting symptoms of H1N1, there are antiviral drugs available which include oseltamivir, peramivir, zanamivir, and baloxavir, and you should speak to your doctor immediately if concerned.
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