H1N1 flu, also referred to as swine flu, is a respiratory disease caused by Type A influenza viruses. Like all influenza viruses, flu viruses change constantly. A new strain of influenza A (H1N1) virus that is a mix of swine, human and/or avian influenza viruses has recently been reported that is contagious and spreading from human to human.

What are the signs and symptoms of H1N1 flu in people?
The symptoms of H1N1 flu in people are similar to seasonal human flu and include:

fevercough • sore throat • runny nose • headaches • body aches • chills • fatigue

Some people have also reported nausea, diarrhea and vomiting associated with the H1N1 flu. Severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and deaths have been reported with H1N1 flu in people.

How does H1N1 flu spread?

Human-to-human transmission can occur through coughing or sneezing of people infected with the influenza virus. People may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose. People with H1N1 influenza virus infection should be considered potentially contagious as long as they are symptomatic and possibly for up to 7 days following illness onset. Children, especially younger children, might potentially be contagious for longer periods.

What can I do to protect myself from getting the flu?

There are everyday steps that you can take to help prevent the spread of the influenza virus. Take these simple steps to protect your health:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after you cough or sneeze. When soap and water are not available alcohol-based and anti-bacterial hand cleaners and wipes are also effective.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• If you get sick with influenza:
  • Stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
  • Cover your nose and mouth with tissue when you cough and sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
  • Wash your hands and do so every time you cough or sneeze.
  • Keep areas clean. Disinfect surfaces within your home to kill germs. Read labels to make sure that products contain the word “disinfectant” or “sanitizer” to kill germs on surfaces.

What should I do if I get sick?

If you live in areas where H1N1 influenza have been identified and become ill with influenza-like symptoms, you may want to contact your health care provider, particularly if you are worried about your symptoms. Your health care provider will determine whether influenza testing or treatment is needed.

Can I get H1N1 flu from eating or preparing pork?

No. H1N1 influenza viruses are not spread by food. You cannot get H1N1 influenza from eating pork or pork products. Eating properly handled and cooked pork products is safe.

For more information, please visit:
Centers for Disease Control (CDC): www.cdc.gov/swineflu
World Health Organization (WHO): www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html 
U.S. Department of Health & Human Services: www.pandemicflu.gov/faq/swineflu