Augusta Doctor Answers Viewer Swine Flu Questions: Part 1

Augusta, GA—We hit the streets and asked all of you what you wanted to know…and took your questions to a local doctor. Here’s what we found out…

Alfred Mixon, Augusta, GA: “Where did this originate from, and how long has it been around?“

Dr. Jim Wilde, MCG pediatrician: “Swine flu, in general, has been around; we’ve known about swine flu since the 1930’s. Pigs frequently get infected with versions of the flu, which is swine flu. This particular strain of swine flu just cropped up, about a month or two ago…first in Mexico, and it’s now spreading throughout the world.“

Lisa Satcher, Augusta, GA: “Is there a typical food you have to watch out that might carry the virus into the United States?“

Dr. Wilde: “So far, there have been no foods that identify as a risk for swine flu.“

Ellis Clay, Augusta, GA: “what are some of the symptoms that really cause you to know something is wrong because you may get it mixed up with the regular flu?

Dr. Wilde: “There are a few more people that will get some vomiting and diarrhea, with swine flu, but even with regular flu, some people get those systems.“

Gray Hawes, Augusta, GA: “Sir, is red meat bad for you?

Dr. Wilde: “With regard to the flu, there is no issue to regards of red meat. If people are worried about pork…as long as it cooked, there’s no issue.“

For more information on Relenza, a drug that may help with swine flu symptons, click here.
For the latest on the CDC’s investigation into the swine flu threat, click here.
For the latest information on swine flu from HealthCentral, click here.
We have also set up a special report page on swine flu. You can view that page by clicking here.