H1N1 (Swine) Flu is a new influenza virus strain causing illness in people. First seen in Mexico, it was

identified in the United States in April 2009. In just a few months, the virus spread throughout the

Spread of H1N1 (Swine) Flu occurs in the same way as seasonal flu. The influenza virus spreads mainly

through coughing or sneezing by people with influenza. Sometimes people become infected by

touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth, nose, or eyes.

The symptoms of H1N1 (Swine) Flu in people are similar to the symptoms of seasonal flu and include

fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported

diarrhea and vomiting. Most people have mild illness, however more severe illness (pneumonia and

respiratory failure) and deaths have been reported with H1N1 (Swine) Flu. Like seasonal flu, people

with underlying chronic medical conditions may have a greater risk of complications if they get

infected.

Like seasonal flu, H1N1 (Swine) Flu in humans can vary in severity from mild to severe.

Yes. The antiviral medications Tamiflu and Relenza are sometimes used to treat influenza, including

H1N1 (Swine) Flu, but most people don’t need them. However, people with underlying medical

conditions that put them at risk for influenza complications might benefit from antiviral medications.

Antiviral drugs are prescription medicines (pills, liquid or an inhaler) that fight against the flu by

keeping flu viruses from reproducing in your body. If you get sick, antiviral drugs can make your illness

milder and make you feel better faster. They may also prevent serious flu complications. For

treatment, antiviral drugs work best if started soon after getting sick (within 2 days of symptoms).

The H1N1 (Swine) Flu virus is not transmitted by food. You cannot get H1N1 (Swine) Flu from eating

pork or pork products. Eating properly handled and cooked pork and pork products are safe.

People infected with seasonal and H1N1 (Swine) flu shed the virus and may be able to infect others

from 1 day before getting sick to 5 to 7 days after. This can be longer in some people, especially

children and people with weakened immune systems.

Vaccines are usually given to prevent infections. Influenza vaccines are made from the killed influenza

virus or weakened versions of the live virus that will not lead to disease. When vaccinated, the body’s

immune system makes antibodies that will fight off infection if exposure to the virus occurs. Antiviral

are drugs that can treat people who are infected by a virus. These also can be used to prevent

infection when given before or shortly after exposure and before illness occurs.

A vaccine to protect against H1N1 (Swine) Flu will be available starting this fall. There are everyday

actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza. Take

these everyday steps to protect your health and your family.

trash after you use it. If a tissue is not available, cough or sneeze into your sleeve.

hand cleaners are also effective.

others.

Studies have shown that influenza virus can survive on environmental surfaces and can infect a person