The Term 'Swine Flu' No Longer Used, Says Ministry of Health

According to official statements from the World Health Organization since 2010, the term 'SWINE FLU' is no longer applicable, reports the Ministry of Health.

The term 'SWINE FLU' was only used in 2009, when the same organization declared a pandemic due to a new subtype of influenza A, which had the potential to cause an outbreak, as it was a newly formed subtype and was 'unknown' to humanity.

Since 2010, the H1N1 subtype of influenza A has been considered a seasonal flu virus for humans and no longer has the potential to cause a pandemic. Moreover, it has been circulating worldwide for the past 10 years, including in the Republic of Armenia.

It is noteworthy that there are vaccines available against subtypes of influenza A such as H1N1 and H3N2, as well as influenza B. These vaccines are available at all medical organizations and are regarded as an effective means of combating influenza. Furthermore, medical organizations are equipped with medications to treat patients with post-influenza complications.

Currently, some medical organizations in the republic are using rapid diagnostic tests for the diagnosis of influenza; however, according to the World Health Organization, these tests are indicative and may result in inaccurate research outcomes. The diagnosis of influenza is carried out only by laboratory-specific methods (polymerase chain reaction), not for diagnosis but for identifying circulating pathogens.

Therefore, it is recommended to refrain from non-professional and panic-inducing comments and publications, and to follow the advice and announcements of the Ministry of Health.

IT SHOULD BE NOTED that the Republic of Armenia is in the season of acute respiratory infections and influenza (from October 2019 to May 2020), and according to laboratory research results, the H1N1 subtype of influenza A and influenza B pathogens have been circulating since November 2019.

To prevent acute respiratory infections and influenza, as well as to avoid post-influenza complications, the Ministry of Health STRONGLY advises to: get vaccinated against seasonal influenza by contacting your registered polyclinic, avoid contact with individuals showing flu-like symptoms, if you are ill, remain at home, especially do not allow children with flu-like symptoms to attend school and kindergarten, ensure they receive advice and treatment from a physician, if unwell, call your local pediatrician, therapist, or family doctor, and do not self-medicate; do not use antibiotics as they are not indicated for the treatment of influenza and acute respiratory infections; dress appropriately for the weather, maintain cough and sneeze etiquette, drink plenty of fluids, frequently ventilate enclosed spaces, and follow personal hygiene practices.