Swine Flu - What You Should Know

Influenza A (H1N1), otherwise known as the Swine Flu, has caused a worldwide health impact. A total of 74 new influenza A (H1N1) infection-related deaths have been reported from four countries: Mexico (68), United States of America (4), Canada (1) and Costa Rica (1). The majority of deaths have occurred in persons below 60 years of age.

How is it caused?

An influenza pandemic is caused by a virus that is either entirely new or has not circulated recently and widely in the human population. This creates an almost universal vulnerability to infection. While not all people ever become infected during a pandemic, nearly all people are susceptible to infection. The occurrence of large numbers of people falling ill at or around the same time is one reason why pandemics are socially and economically disruptive, with a potential to temporarily overburden health services. People with underlying chronic conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension, asthma, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and several others, are more likely to experience severe or lethal infections.

When influenza A (H1N1) began spreading in Mexico, a substantial proportion of the cases of severe illness and death has occurred among young and previously healthy adults.

What can be done?

One of the most effective ways to protect you, your friends and family from the flu is to practise good personal hygiene. That includes regular washing of hands, covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing and staying at least one metre from anyone who is unwell. People who have the flu should not go to work or school or attend other public gatherings. For those individuals who believe that serious illness can never happen to them, now is the time to reconsider their opinion. For those individuals who contract Influenza A (H1N1), the impact upon them and their families could be substantial. As recovery may take weeks, it is worthwhile for all individuals to ensure they have adequate financial protection in place via adequate personal insurance.

The above article has been sourced from CommInsure's Did You Know series.

Important Information

The above information provides an overview or summary only and it shouldn’t be considered a comprehensive statement on any matter or relied upon as such. The above information doesn’t take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. It’s important for you to consider these matters before making any financial decision and I recommend you seek help from a financial adviser.