Swine flu is caused by the H1N1 influenza virus. It spreads the same way as seasonal flu, through coughs, sneezes and touching shared surfaces, and cases in Delhi NCR usually rise in winter and during the monsoon.

Symptoms

Fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, body ache, headache and tiredness. Some people also get vomiting or loose motions. On its own, it can look like ordinary flu.

Who is at higher risk

  • Children under 5 and adults over 65
  • Pregnant women
  • People with asthma, diabetes, or heart, kidney or lung disease
  • Anyone with weak immunity

Go to a hospital immediately if

  • breathing becomes fast or difficult
  • there is chest pain or the lips turn bluish
  • high fever lasts more than 3 days
  • the person is confused, very drowsy or can't keep fluids down
  • a child refuses feeds or is unusually irritable

H1N1 is confirmed with a swab test. Antiviral medicine prescribed by an MBBS doctor works best when started early, especially for high-risk groups, so don't delay it while trying home remedies.

Protecting your family

  • Cover coughs and sneezes, and wash hands with soap often
  • Keep the sick person in a separate room if possible, wearing a mask
  • Ask your doctor about the yearly flu vaccine for high-risk family members

Where homeopathy fits

For mild flu symptoms, and for recovery afterwards (lingering cough, weakness, poor appetite), Dr Amit Kumar can prescribe homeopathic medicine alongside the care your physician advises. He will also tell you if your symptoms need a hospital.

For flu symptoms, recovery after the fever, or repeat winter infections, see the clinic's page on H1N1 and flu treatment in Vaishali.

Dr Amit Kumar (BHMS, Delhi Homoeopathic Board Reg. No. 2350) has practised in Sector 4, Vaishali, Ghaziabad since 1994. The clinic is at B-3, Basement, Mini Reliance Plaza, near Sarvodaya Hospital, open Monday to Saturday, 11 AM to 1 PM and 6 PM to 8 PM. A consultation costs ₹500.

See clinic timings and book a consultation