PostHeaderIcon Which virus: seasonal flu or H1N1 virus?



The flu as reported by the Naga City Health Office (Bicol Mail, 07/16/09) could well indeed be cases of seasonal flu---the viral illness that makes rounds this year. However, I wonder if this flu described by Health officer Dr. Vito Borja is apart from the H1N1 which is the subject of concern, study and containment at this time.

It’s hard to differentiate between the seasonal and swine flu. The genomic features and clinical manifestations of both influenza viruses have points of overlaps. Therefore, without diagnostic confirmation as done in the Research Institute of Tropical Medicine (RITM) in Manila, no one will ever know for sure what the city is dealing with.

I believe residents of Naga and other towns including health care workers are eager to learn if confirmatory tests are done. Whichever virus may affect the population, greater surveillance is important to put into action the ways to prevent and control the spread of the disease.

The H1N1 flu, though generally benign and self-limiting, has the potential to mutate and transform into a vicious resistant disease. It poses health risks to the people like the seasonal flu. (Photo Credit: CDC) =0=

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