The Swine Flu changes name

Last year the Swine Flu attracted international media attention and a number of Australians came into contact with this strain of the flu. There are many different strains of the flu virus and the correct name for the strain previously called Swine Flu is the H1N1 virus.

All flu virus names have an “H” and an “N” followed by a number. H and N are the initials of two proteins located on the surface of the flu virus. These proteins are Hemagglutinin and Neuraminidase. The numbers after the letters refer to different forms of these proteins. These differences are important because they are potential targets that the immune system can use to fight the flu.

Although a specific Flu might be named after a country or animal that it was initially associated with, scientists use H/N system to more accurately identify all flu strains. This form of labeling helps scientists to understand each strain and research possible treatments and vaccinations.

Flu season 2010 for people with HIV

Health Authorities are predicting a higher number of cases of the H1N1 Flu strain (Swine Flu) during this year’s Australian flu season. In response the government is making the newly developed multiple flu vaccination free to all people at risk of potential health concerns, including people with HIV. It is important to have the vaccine as soon as you can to prevent you from getting the flu.

As well as considering vaccinating against the flu there are a number of other things you can do to avoid the flu, and strategies to help if you do get the flu.

Vaccination

This year’s flu vaccination gives protection against three strains of flu virus including H1N1. The vaccine also gives coverage for two other ‘regular’ strains of the flu that are prominent each season. The vaccination is free and available to people with a range of health issues including people with HIV.

Doctors and Health Authorities are recommending that people with HIV consider vaccination in plenty of time for the flu season as it can take several weeks for the vaccination to become effective against the flu. Even if you have already received the single H1N1 vaccination you can still have this vaccination. Having this vaccine will ‘boost’ your immunity to the H1N1 virus as well as giving you protection against the ‘regular’ flu.

Although safe and effective the vaccination is not suitable for everyone with HIV so people should ask their HIV Doctor or other health care professional if they think you should receive the vaccination.

Other useful tips

As well as vaccination there are other strategies that can help you avoid the flu, including:

• Keep warm by staying out of the cold and wearing appropriate clothing including scarves and hats – a lower body temperature means lower immune defenses – especially around the head, face and neck
• Avoid contact with people who have the flu
• Avoid touching your eyes nose and mouth – touching your face can transfer the flu virus from your hands to your mouth
• Thoroughly and regularly clean shared surfaces like work benches, phones, computer keyboards, door handles, lift buttons and stair rails 
• Wash your hands often using soap and hot water or sanitising lotions, especially before eating and after coming into contact with other people or shared surfaces
• Use clean or disposable eating and drinking utensils

If you do get the flu

• Contact your doctor as soon as you have symptoms to ask if you need to take an anti-flu medication.
• Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze
• Dispose of tissues promptly into a rubbish bin
•  Wash your hands regularly
• Stay at home from work and other activities to prevent transmission to others
• Drink plenty of warm fluids like soups and tea
• Take paracetamol or a similar product to help with fever and aches
• Rest and keep warm

Find out more

There is growing evidence that certain supplements can alleviate symptoms and shorten the duration of the flu. Ask your doctor, naturopath or pharmacist what they would recommend. If you are taking HIV treatments or other medication it is important to ask your pharmacist to check for possible interactions.

If you are concerned that your symptoms are severe or lasting more than a few days see your doctor who may want to test for other health issues or recommend a different treatment strategy.

Download: Check out the Australian Government Fact Sheet for Influenza Vaccination 2010 (PDF) that includes information about other health issues that entitle people to the vaccination.

More info

Contact: ACON’s HIV Men's Health Promotion Team or ACON's Women & Families Project

Tel: (02) 9699 8756

Email: hivliving@acon.org.au or family@acon.org.au