Tamiflu does not kill but prevenets H1N1 from further proliferation till the virus limits itself in about 1-2 weeks (its natural cycle). H1N1, like other Influenza A viruses, only infects the upper respiratory tract and proliferates (only) there. The only portals of entry are the nostrils and mouth/throat. In a global epidemic of this nature, it’s almost impossible not coming in contact with H1N1 in spite of all precautions. Contact with H1N1 is not so much of a problem as a proliferation is.
While you are still healthy and not showing symptoms of H1N1 infection, in order to prevent proliferation, aggravation of symptoms and development of secondary infections, some very simple steps – not fully highlighted in most official communications – can be practiced:
1. Frequent hand-washing (well highlighter in all official communications).
2. “Hands-off-the-face” approach. Resist al temptations to touch any part of the face.
3. Gargle twice a day with warm salt water (use Listerine if you don’t trust salt).. takes 2-3 days after initial infection in the throat/nasal cavity to proliferate and show characteristic symptoms. Simple gargling prevents proliferation. In a way, gargling with salt water has the same effect on a healthy individual that Tamiflu has on an infected one. Don’t underestimate this simple, inexpensive and powerful preventative method.
4. Similar to #3 above, clean your nostrils at least once every day with warm salt water. Blowing the nose hard once a day, and swabbing both nostrils with cotton buds dipped in warm salt water is very effective in bringing down viral population.
5. Boose your natural immunity with foods that are rich in Vitamin C (Amla and other citrus fruits). If you have to supplement with Vitamin C tablets, make sure that it also has Zinc to boost absorption.
6. Drink as much of warm liquids as you can. Drinking warm liquids has the same effect as gargling, but in a reverse direction. They wash off proliferation viruses from the throat into the stomach where they cannot survive, proliferate or do any harm.
