Scientists recently discovered that 2009 H1N1 Swine Flu virus was more similar to the 1918 pandemic H1N1 Spanish Flu strain. Additionally, current mutations of this virus have made previous flu vaccines less efficient.
Dr. Roger Mazlen (an internist in Rosyln Heights) discussed the Swine Flu epidemics during a teleconference. In addition to traditional medical school, Dr. Mazlen has also completed specialized training at National Institute for Health, (NIH), and was the former Clinical Director for Immunotec, Ltd., Canada. For more than 30 years, he has been practicing internal medicine and nutrition.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Swine flu or H1N1 was first identified in a pig in 1930. The virus can migrate from domestic pigs into humans. Dr. Mazlen stated that there are many factors that contribute to the current outbreak of swine influenza, including economic, cultural, and environmental issues. “The current recession, loss of retirement funds, compromised nutrition, reduced exercise, obesity and other factors produce immune depression. A depressed immune system cannot fight off the invasion of viral and other pathogens that attempt to find a home to set up infections in our bodies,”He says.
Dr. Mazlen recommends protection strategies to avoid a potential larger H1N1 flu epidemic in the 2009 and 2010 flu seasons. “Frequent hand washing is a start. Also, lots of daily water helps to hydrate the body and assist the immune system,”He stated. Fortification can be achieved with mineral and vitamin supplements, but Dr. Mazlen suggests adding fish oil due to its clinically-proven support for immune function. Many brands and fish oil blends can be purchased at various health food stores in both liquid and gel capsules. www.puritan.com.
Dr. Mazlen stated that Tamiflu (the current recommended prescription medication for flu and Swine flu) is most effective when it’s administered within the first few hours after symptoms develop. The CDC reports that Swine Flu has the ability to mutate in just hours. Swine Flu may be treated with Tamiflu in the morning. However, it may not be effective by the evening due to viral mutation.
Dr. Mazlen answered Dr. Mazlen’s question about whether Echinacea, a popular herbal remedy, could actually be effective. However studies have shown that it has very little effect on the immune system. He preferred a natural, immune-stimulating drug that he had used with over 500 patients. Dr. Mazlen explained that while the original product was developed in Russia, it is now manufactured in America. Patients who have had to fight flu and other infections have experienced good results. Del-Immune V is now available. www.delimmune.com.
It is possible to prevent serious flu-related infections by taking early steps to protect your health. Dr. Mazlen ended the discussion by asking whether Swine Flu H1N1 is the cause or a mutated version of Swine Flu. “It is important to have an immune defense strategy this year — the earlier the better,”He stated.
