H1N1 (Swine) Flu Frequently Asked Questions

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What is H1N1 (Swine) Flu?
Novel H1N1 (referred to as “swine flu” early on) is a new influenza virus strain causing illness in people. First seen in Mexico, it was identified in the United States in April 2009. Over just a few months, the virus spread throughout the world. This virus spreads from person-to- person the same way that regular seasonal influenza viruses spread.

How do you catch H1N1 (Swine) Flu?
Human-to-human spread of H1N1 (swine) flu occurs in the same way as seasonal flu. The influenza virus is spread mainly through coughing or sneezing by people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.

What are the signs and symptoms of H1N1 (swine) flu in people?
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 from H1N1 (swine) flu if they get infected with the virus.

How serious is H1N1 (swine) flu infection?
Like seasonal flu, H1N1 (swine) flu in humans can vary in severity from mild to severe.

Are there medicines to treat H1N1 (swine) flu?
Yes. The antiviral medications Tamiflu and Relenza are sometimes used to treat influenza, including novel H1N1, 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).

Can people catch H1N1 (swine) flu from eating pork?
H1N1 (swine) influenza viruses are not transmitted by food. You can not get H1N1 (swine) influenza from eating pork or pork products. Eating properly handled and cooked pork and pork products is safe.

How long can an infected person spread H1N1 (swine) flu to others?
People infected with seasonal and novel H1N1 flu shed 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 and in people infected with the new H1N1 virus.

What is the difference between a vaccine and an antiviral?
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. Antivirals are drugs that can treat people who have already been infected by a virus. They also can be used to prevent infection when given before or shortly after exposure and before illness occurs.

What can I do to protect myself from getting sick?
A vaccine to protect against H1N1 influenza is now available. 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.

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• If a tissue is not available, cough or sneeze into the inside sleeve of your elbow.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
• Try to avoid contact with sick people.
• If you get sick with influenza, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.

How long can influenza virus remain alive on objects (such as books and doorknobs)?
Studies have shown that influenza virus can survive on environmental surfaces and can infect a person for up to 2-8 hours after being deposited on the surface.

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