Augusta Doctor Answers Viewer Swine Flu Questions: Part 2

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…

Jimmy Stevens, Augusta: “How long has it been around? If it’s been around then why are we just hearing about it?“

Dr. Jim Wilde, MCG pediatrician: “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.”

Ellis Clay, Augusta, GA: “What are some of the symptoms that really cause you to know something is wrong?“

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 symptoms. Primarily it’s a respiratory illness meaning fever plus sore throat or cough often with muscle aches and headaches.”

Alfred Mixon, Augusta, GA: “I understand that in 1918 more people were dying of the flu then they were in World War 1 could this happen again?“

Dr. Wilde: “This virus for unknown reasons appears to have been able to make the jump so its able to infect humans that is a big concern because that may mean that we are looking at the beginning of a new pandemic.”

Jimmy Stevens, Augusta, GA: “How long does it take for symptoms to develop?“

Dr. Wilde: “Once you’ve been infected and the virus is in your system it takes about three days to develop symptoms. It’s because the incubation is so short that we get explosive epidemics of the flu.”

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.