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What you should know about H1N1 Virus (Swine Flu)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 31, 2009

What is novel H1N1?
Popularly known as the "swine flu," novel H1N1 is a new Influenza virus strain that causes illness in humans and was first detected in the United States on April 2009. The virus spreads from person to person the same way the seasonal cold virus does and was declared a pandemic on June 11, 2009 by the World Health Organization (WHO).

"Swine flu"? Did it come from pigs?
No. Because laboratory testing revealed many of the genes of the novel H1N1 virus were very similar to the influenza virus that normally occur in pigs (swine) in North America, the virus was originally named "swine flu." Further studies, however, have shown that this new virus is very different from the virus that normally affects pigs.
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) H1N1 Flu and You

How severe is the illness associated with novel H1N1 virus?
Illness can range from mild to severe. Majority of people contracting the virus recover without needing medical intervention however extreme cases requiring hospitalizations and even resulting to death have been documented in the United States and worldwide.

Signs and symptoms

  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Chills
  • Cough
  • Fatigue
  • Sore throat
    		•
    • Body aches
    • Vomiting
    • Diarrhea
    • Sneezing
    • Runny nose
    • Stuffy nose

    Note: Severe illnesses and death have occurred as a result of illness associated with this virus.

    Prevention and Treatment

    • Wash your hands often with soap and water (for 15 to 20 seconds), especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based antibacterial hand sanitizers are also effective.
    • Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
    • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs spread this way.
    • Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
    • Stay away from crowded living and sleeping spaces, if possible
    • If you are sick with flu-like illness, CDC recommends that you stay home at least 24 hours after your fever is gone
    • Follow public health advice regarding school closures, avoiding crowds, and other social distancing measures.
    • Be prepared in case you get sick. Stock on over-the-counter medicines, tissue, and other related items to help avoid exposure to the public while you are sick and contagious.
    • CDC recommends the use of prescription antivirals oseltamivir or zanamivir to limit the severity and duration of illness.

    Currently no vaccine is available to protect against novel H1N1. The vaccine is currently in production and may be ready for the public in the fall.

    Resources Available

    Cover Your Cough!