Swine Flu(also called swine influenza) is caused by any strain of influenza virus in pigs, though as of now its quite safe to say that eating pig meat would not cause swine flu in humans. Infact it was quite rare in humans, putting only them at risk who are at intense exposure to the affected animals. It is a type of H1N1 strain of influenza type A. H1N1 is the same strain which causes seasonal outbreaks of flu in humans. But this latest version of H1N1 contains genetic material that is typically found in strains of the virus that affect humans, birds and swine.

Symptons

Swine flu is a type of respiratory disease thought to spread through coughing and sneezing. Symptoms are similar to those of normal flu, and these include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, chills and fatigue. So far swine flu cases across the world have been reported to be mild, except mexico, where deaths have been reported.

Prevention

Good hygiene like using a tissue and washing hands thoroughly can help reduce transmission. Alcohol-based gel or foam hand sanitizers work well to destroy viruses and bacteria. Anyone with flu-like symptoms such as a sudden fever, cough or muscle aches should stay away from work or public transportation and should see a doctor to be tested.

Social distancing is another tactic. It means staying away from other people who might be infected or perhaps staying home and lying low if an infection is spreading in a community.

Infact Governments of countries are restricting travel to affected countries specially Mexico.

Can it be treated?

The US authorities say that two drugs commonly used to treat flu, Tamiflu and Relenza, seem to be effective at treating cases that have occurred there so far. However, the drugs must be administered at an early stage to be effective. No vaccination for the same has as yet been developed.

Additional Reading

http://ac360.blogs.cnn.com/2009/04/28/swine-flu-faqs/

http://www.eweekeurope.co.uk/news/google-tools-tracking-swine-flu-outbreak-750