Some individuals have a higher risk for complications and possibly even death if they are infected with the h1n1 virus. Lung conditions like COPD and asthma are a few of the factors that can increase the risk to you. Those who have COPD have a significantly higher incidence of severe complications than others.
COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is a condition that makes it difficult to breathe. In most cases, this disease worsens over time. It can cause coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and other symptoms.
About 41% of individuals hospitalized in New York suffered from COPD, asthma, or some other lung condition. And recently, seven deaths relating to swine flu were reported in New York. Out of those seven deaths, six of the individuals had some sort of lung disease. If you have COPD you should speak with your doctor and see if he recommends any special precautions regarding the swine flu, even before an outbreak occurs in your area.
The H1N1 virus causes influenza in humans. The pathogen has gone through a recent mutation into its current form. Due to this mutation, humans have no immunity to this illness. This is why health professionals are worried regarding the possibility of a pandemic.
Like the seasonal influenza, serious complications and even death has taken place as a consequence of sickness related to this serious disease. Worldwide, about 250,000 people die each year from influenza related complications.
If you are worried about COPD and swine flu, safeguarding your family, or know someone that has one of these risk factors, do some preparation now. Do what is necessary to guard yourself and your family from the swine flu. Once a pandemic occurs, medical supplies could be in short supply and it could be too late to do anything at that time.