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Swine Flu and Asthma Complications

H1N1 Vaccination Recommended for Asthmatics, Especially Children

Nov 9, 2009 Fleur Hupston

Many adults and children who have been hospitalized with swine flu have asthma as well. Swine flu shots are strongly recommended for the high-risk group of asthmatics.

According to an analysis of cases of those hospitalized for swine flu, nearly one third of the patients concerned have asthma. The New England Journal of Medicine, who conducted the analysis, listed diabetes and a weakened immune system the next most common complications.

Swine Flu Epidemic Symptoms

For many people, swine flu symptoms include fever, congestion and possibly nausea, diarrhea or vomiting. For those with a good immune system, swine flu can be successfully combated with time, bed rest and flu medication.

However, for those who have asthma, an H1N1 infection can be far more serious. According to Richard Gower, Immunologist at Marycliff Allery Specialists, Washington, "Asthma is sort of an accident waiting to happen."

The lungs of asthmatics tend to tighten in response to triggers such as pollen, allergens, bacteria or viruses. In the case of an infection like H1N1, the lungs produce mucus in response to the germ. Mucus can get trapped in the narrow airways, setting the stage for pneumonia.

Children's Asthma and Swine Flu

The parents of children with asthma should ensure that their children take their asthma medication as directed. It should especially be emphasized to teenagers that they must not skip their asthma medication if they have chronic asthma.

"Being in a high risk group for swine flu means that children and adults with the condition should get the vaccine as soon as possible," says Richard Gower.

There is a nasal spray version of the H1N1 vaccine, but people with asthma should wait for the vaccine to be administered as a shot according to the CDC. The nasal spray contains weakened H1N1 virus and is not recommended for high-risk individuals. The shot contains dead virus, which is safer for asthmatics.

If a child does get sick and shows symptoms of swine flu, parents should take the child to the doctor immediately, especially if he or she has asthma and has a fever or seems to be getting worse.

Avoiding Infection

As with any seasonal flu, swine flu infection can be prevented by washing hands frequently with soap and hot water, avoiding contact with people suspected to have the virus, contacting a health care provider if symptoms appear, using alcohol based sanitizers and/or wearing a respiratory mask.

More Articles on Swine Flu and the Immune System:

Swine Flu Alternatives and Natural Cures looks at nutrients and supplements that can fight the swine flu epidemic.

A more comprehensive look at the risks of swine flu vaccines is discussed in the article Swine Flu Vaccine Complications

Iron deficiency is common around the world and can lead to health problems. How to Prevent Iron Deficiency Naturally provides information on iron enhancers, inhibitors and treatment.

Source:

Article "Asthma and Swine Flu: Here's what to do". Theresa Tamkins, Health.com, information retrieved 9 November, 2009.

The copyright of the article Swine Flu and Asthma Complications in General Medicine is owned by Fleur Hupston. Permission to republish Swine Flu and Asthma Complications in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.