Swine Flu influenza ((H1N1)
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| Symptoms of the H1N1 flu are similar to common flu symptoms—coughing, sore throat, body aches, headache, and fatigue. If you have a fever of more than 102 degrees, you should contact your personal physician immediately. He or she will be able to help determine whether testing or treatment is needed for the H1N1 flu. If you experience a serious condition that you believe could be an emergency medical condition (either related or unrelated to the H1N1 flu), call 911 or go to the nearest hospital.* |
Discuss with your doctor before taking any alternative medicine. This article is for
reference only, it is not a medical advice. All rights reserved. Do not copy this article to
other website or blog.
reference only, it is not a medical advice. All rights reserved. Do not copy this article to
other website or blog.
Swine Flu influenza
You may have heard about the swine flu (H1N1) outbreak.
If you’re concerned that you or a family member has contracted the H1N1 flu
What is H1N1 (swine flu)?
H1N1 (referred to as “swine flu” early on) is a new influenza virus causing illness in people. This
new virus was first detected in people in April 2009 in the United States. Other countries,
including Mexico and Canada, have reported people sick with this new virus. This virus is
spreading from person-to-person, probably in much the same way that regular seasonal
influenza viruses spread.
Why is this new H1N1 virus sometimes called “swine flu”?
This virus was originally referred to as “swine flu” because laboratory testing showed that many
of the genes in this new virus were very similar to influenza viruses that normally occur in pigs in
North America. But further study has shown that this new virus is very different from what
normally circulates in North American pigs. It has two genes from flu viruses that normally
circulate in pigs in Europe and Asia and avian genes and human genes. Scientists call this a
“quadruple reassortant” virus.
Do pigs carry this virus and can I catch this virus from a pig?
At this time, there is no evidence that swine in the United States are infected with this new virus.
However, there are flu viruses that commonly cause outbreaks of illness in pigs. Most of the
time, these viruses do not infect people, but influenza viruses can spread back and forth between
pigs and people.
Are there human infections with this H1N1 virus in the U.S.?
Yes. Cases of human infection with this H1N1 influenza virus were first confirmed in the U.S. in
Southern California and near Guadalupe County, Texas. The outbreak intensified rapidly from that
time and more and more states have been reporting cases of illness from this virus. An updated
case count of confirmed novel H1N1 flu infections in the United States is kept at http://www.cdc.
gov/h1n1flu/investigation.htm. CDC and local and state health agencies are working together to
investigate this situation.
Is this new H1N1 virus contagious?
CDC has determined that this new H1N1 virus is contagious and is spreading from human to
human. However, at this time, it is not known how easily the virus spreads between people.
How severe is illness associated with this new H1N1 virus?
It’s not known at this time how severe this virus will be in the general population. CDC is studying
the medical histories of people who have been infected with this virus to determine whether
some people may be at greater risk from infection, serious illness or hospitalization from the
virus. In seasonal flu, there are certain people that are at higher risk of serious flu-related
complications. This includes young children, pregnant women, people with chronic medical
conditions and people 65 and older. It’s unknown at this time whether certain groups of people
are at greater risk of serious flu-related complications from infection with this new virus. CDC
also is conducting laboratory studies to see if certain people might have natural immunity to this
virus, depending on their age.
How does this new H1N1 virus spread?
Spread of this H1N1 virus is thought to be happening in the same way that seasonal flu spreads.
Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person 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.
Can I get infected with this new H1N1 virus from eating or preparing pork?
No. H1N1 viruses are not spread by food. You cannot get this new HIN1 virus from eating pork or
pork products. Eating properly handled and cooked pork products is safe.
Is there a risk from drinking water?
Tap water that has been treated by conventional disinfection processes does not likely pose a
risk for transmission of influenza viruses. Current drinking water treatment regulations provide a
high degree of protection from viruses. No research has been completed on the susceptibility of
the novel H1N1 flu virus to conventional drinking water treatment processes. However, recent
studies have demonstrated that free chlorine levels typically used in drinking water treatment
are adequate to inactivate highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza. It is likely that other influenza
viruses such as novel H1N1 would also be similarly inactivated by chlorination. To date, there
have been no documented human cases of influenza caused by exposure to influenza-
contaminated drinking water.
Can the novel H1N1 flu virus be spread through water in swimming pools, spas, water parks,
interactive fountains, and other treated recreational water venues?
Recreational water that has been treated at CDC recommended disinfectant levels (1–3 parts per
million [ppm or mg/L] for pools and 2–5 ppm for spas) does not likely pose a risk for transmission
of influenza viruses. Currently, there are no documented human cases of influenza caused by
exposure to influenza-contaminated swimming pool water. No research has been completed on
the susceptibility of the novel H1N1 flu virus to chlorine and other disinfectants used in swimming
pools, spas, water parks, interactive fountains, and other treated recreational venues. However,
recent studies have demonstrated that free chlorine levels recommended by CDC are adequate
to disinfect highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus. It is likely that other influenza viruses
such as the novel H1N1 flu virus would also be disinfected by these chlorine levels.
Can H1N1 influenza virus be spread at recreational water venues outside of the water?
Yes, recreational water venues are no different than any other group setting. The spread of this
novel H1N1 flu is thought to be happening in the same way that seasonal flu spreads. Flu viruses
are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing of people with influenza.
Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then
touching their mouth or nose.
What should I do to keep from getting the flu?
First and most important: wash your hands. Try to stay in good general health. Get plenty of sleep,
be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food. Try not to
touch surfaces that may be contaminated with the flu virus. Avoid close contact with people who
are sick.
Are there medicines to treat infection with this new virus?
Yes. CDC recommends the use of oseltamivir or zanamivir for the treatment and/or prevention of
infection with these new influenza A (H1N1) viruses. 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. During the current outbreak, the priority use for
influenza antiviral drugs during is to treat severe influenza illness.
How long can an infected person spread this virus to others?
At the current time, CDC believes that this virus has the same properties in terms of spread as
seasonal flu viruses. With seasonal flu, studies have shown that people may be contagious from
one day before they develop symptoms to up to 7 days after they get sick. Children, especially
younger children, might potentially be contagious for longer periods. CDC is studying the virus
and its capabilities to try to learn more and will provide more information as it becomes available.
What surfaces are most likely to be sources of contamination?
Germs can be spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and
then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth. Droplets from a cough or sneeze of an infected
person move through the air. Germs can be spread when a person touches respiratory droplets
from another person on a surface like a desk, for example, and then touches their own eyes,
mouth or nose before washing their hands.
What can I do to protect myself from getting sick?
There is no vaccine available right now to protect against this new H1N1 virus. 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:
* Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the
trash after you use it.
* 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 close contact with sick people.
Stay home if you are sick for 7 days after your symptoms begin or until you have been symptom-
free for 24 hours, whichever is longer. This is to keep from infecting others and spreading the
virus further.
Other important actions that you can take are:
* Follow public health advice regarding school closures, avoiding crowds and other social
distancing measures.
* Be prepared in case you get sick and need to stay home for a week or so; a supply of over-the-
counter medicines, alcohol-based hand rubs, tissues and other related items might could be
useful and help avoid the need to make trips out in public while you are sick and contagious.
What is the best way to keep from spreading the virus through coughing or sneezing?
If you are sick, limit your contact with other people as much as possible. Do not go to work or
school if ill for 7 days or until your symptoms go away (whichever is longer). Cover your mouth
and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting
sick. Put your used tissue in the waste basket. Cover your cough or sneeze if you do not have a
tissue. Then, clean your hands, and do so every time you cough or sneeze.
What is the best technique for washing my hands to avoid getting the flu?
Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. Wash with soap and water or clean
with alcohol-based hand cleaner. We recommend that when you wash your hands -- with soap
and warm water -- that you wash for 15 to 20 seconds. When soap and water are not available,
alcohol-based disposable hand wipes or gel sanitizers may be used. You can find them in most
supermarkets and drugstores. If using gel, rub your hands until the gel is dry. The gel doesn't
need water to work; the alcohol in it kills the germs on your hands.
What should I do if I get sick?
If you live in areas where cases have been identified and become ill with influenza-like
symptoms, including fever, body aches, runny nose, sore throat, nausea, or vomiting or diarrhea,
you may want to contact their health care provider, particularly if you are worried about your
symptoms. Your health care provider will determine whether influenza testing or treatment is
needed.
If you are sick, you should stay home and avoid contact with other people as much as possible to
keep from spreading your illness to others.
If you become ill and experience any of the following warning signs, seek emergency medical
care.
In children emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:
* Fast breathing or trouble breathing
* Bluish or gray skin color
* Not drinking enough fluids
* Not waking up or not interacting
* Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
* Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough
* Fever with a rash
In adults, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:
* Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
* Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
* Sudden dizziness
* Confusion
* Severe or persistent vomiting
What is CDC doing in response to the outbreak?
CDC has implemented its emergency response. The agency’s goals are to reduce transmission
and illness severity, and provide information to help health care providers, public health officials
and the public address the challenges posed by the new virus. CDC continues to issue new
interim guidance for clinicians and public health professionals. In addition, CDC’s Division of the
Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) continues to send antiviral drugs, personal protective
equipment, and respiratory protection devices to all 50 states and U.S. territories to help them
respond to the outbreak.
What epidemiological investigations are taking place in response to the recent outbreak?
CDC works very closely with state and local officials in areas where human cases of H1N1
(swine flu) infections have been identified. In California and Texas, where EpiAid teams have been
deployed, many epidemiological activities are taking place or planned including:
* Active surveillance in the counties where infections in humans have been identified;
* Studies of health care workers who were exposed to patients infected with the virus to see if
they became infected;
* Studies of households and other contacts of people who were confirmed to have been infected
to see if they became infected;
* Study of a public high school where three confirmed human cases of influenza A (H1N1) of
swine origin occurred to see if anyone became infected and how much contact they had with a
confirmed case; and
* Study to see how long a person with the virus infection sheds the virus.
How long can influenza virus remain viable 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.
What kills influenza virus?
Influenza virus is destroyed by heat (167-212°F [75-100°C]). In addition, several chemical
germicides, including chlorine, hydrogen peroxide, detergents (soap), iodophors (iodine-based
antiseptics), and alcohols are effective against human influenza viruses if used in proper
concentration for a sufficient length of time. For example, wipes or gels with alcohol in them can
be used to clean hands. The gels should be rubbed into hands until they are dry.
How should waste disposal be handled to prevent the spread of influenza virus?
To prevent the spread of influenza virus, it is recommended that tissues and other disposable
items used by an infected person be thrown in the trash. Additionally, persons should wash their
hands with soap and water after touching used tissues and similar waste.
Who is in charge of medicine in the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) once it is deployed?
Local health officials have full control of SNS medicine once supplies are deployed to a city, state,
or territory. Federal, state, and local community planners are working together to ensure that
SNS medicines will be delivered to the affected area as soon as possible. Many cities, states, and
territories have already received SNS supplies. After CDC sends medicine to a state or city,
control and distribution of the supply is at the discretion of that state or local health department.
Most states and cities also have their own medicines that they can access to treat infected
persons.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
INFORMATION Adapted on May 3 2009 from CDC.GOV
You may have heard about the swine flu (H1N1) outbreak.
If you’re concerned that you or a family member has contracted the H1N1 flu
What is H1N1 (swine flu)?
H1N1 (referred to as “swine flu” early on) is a new influenza virus causing illness in people. This
new virus was first detected in people in April 2009 in the United States. Other countries,
including Mexico and Canada, have reported people sick with this new virus. This virus is
spreading from person-to-person, probably in much the same way that regular seasonal
influenza viruses spread.
Why is this new H1N1 virus sometimes called “swine flu”?
This virus was originally referred to as “swine flu” because laboratory testing showed that many
of the genes in this new virus were very similar to influenza viruses that normally occur in pigs in
North America. But further study has shown that this new virus is very different from what
normally circulates in North American pigs. It has two genes from flu viruses that normally
circulate in pigs in Europe and Asia and avian genes and human genes. Scientists call this a
“quadruple reassortant” virus.
Do pigs carry this virus and can I catch this virus from a pig?
At this time, there is no evidence that swine in the United States are infected with this new virus.
However, there are flu viruses that commonly cause outbreaks of illness in pigs. Most of the
time, these viruses do not infect people, but influenza viruses can spread back and forth between
pigs and people.
Are there human infections with this H1N1 virus in the U.S.?
Yes. Cases of human infection with this H1N1 influenza virus were first confirmed in the U.S. in
Southern California and near Guadalupe County, Texas. The outbreak intensified rapidly from that
time and more and more states have been reporting cases of illness from this virus. An updated
case count of confirmed novel H1N1 flu infections in the United States is kept at http://www.cdc.
gov/h1n1flu/investigation.htm. CDC and local and state health agencies are working together to
investigate this situation.
Is this new H1N1 virus contagious?
CDC has determined that this new H1N1 virus is contagious and is spreading from human to
human. However, at this time, it is not known how easily the virus spreads between people.
How severe is illness associated with this new H1N1 virus?
It’s not known at this time how severe this virus will be in the general population. CDC is studying
the medical histories of people who have been infected with this virus to determine whether
some people may be at greater risk from infection, serious illness or hospitalization from the
virus. In seasonal flu, there are certain people that are at higher risk of serious flu-related
complications. This includes young children, pregnant women, people with chronic medical
conditions and people 65 and older. It’s unknown at this time whether certain groups of people
are at greater risk of serious flu-related complications from infection with this new virus. CDC
also is conducting laboratory studies to see if certain people might have natural immunity to this
virus, depending on their age.
How does this new H1N1 virus spread?
Spread of this H1N1 virus is thought to be happening in the same way that seasonal flu spreads.
Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person 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.
Can I get infected with this new H1N1 virus from eating or preparing pork?
No. H1N1 viruses are not spread by food. You cannot get this new HIN1 virus from eating pork or
pork products. Eating properly handled and cooked pork products is safe.
Is there a risk from drinking water?
Tap water that has been treated by conventional disinfection processes does not likely pose a
risk for transmission of influenza viruses. Current drinking water treatment regulations provide a
high degree of protection from viruses. No research has been completed on the susceptibility of
the novel H1N1 flu virus to conventional drinking water treatment processes. However, recent
studies have demonstrated that free chlorine levels typically used in drinking water treatment
are adequate to inactivate highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza. It is likely that other influenza
viruses such as novel H1N1 would also be similarly inactivated by chlorination. To date, there
have been no documented human cases of influenza caused by exposure to influenza-
contaminated drinking water.
Can the novel H1N1 flu virus be spread through water in swimming pools, spas, water parks,
interactive fountains, and other treated recreational water venues?
Recreational water that has been treated at CDC recommended disinfectant levels (1–3 parts per
million [ppm or mg/L] for pools and 2–5 ppm for spas) does not likely pose a risk for transmission
of influenza viruses. Currently, there are no documented human cases of influenza caused by
exposure to influenza-contaminated swimming pool water. No research has been completed on
the susceptibility of the novel H1N1 flu virus to chlorine and other disinfectants used in swimming
pools, spas, water parks, interactive fountains, and other treated recreational venues. However,
recent studies have demonstrated that free chlorine levels recommended by CDC are adequate
to disinfect highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus. It is likely that other influenza viruses
such as the novel H1N1 flu virus would also be disinfected by these chlorine levels.
Can H1N1 influenza virus be spread at recreational water venues outside of the water?
Yes, recreational water venues are no different than any other group setting. The spread of this
novel H1N1 flu is thought to be happening in the same way that seasonal flu spreads. Flu viruses
are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing of people with influenza.
Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then
touching their mouth or nose.
What should I do to keep from getting the flu?
First and most important: wash your hands. Try to stay in good general health. Get plenty of sleep,
be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food. Try not to
touch surfaces that may be contaminated with the flu virus. Avoid close contact with people who
are sick.
Are there medicines to treat infection with this new virus?
Yes. CDC recommends the use of oseltamivir or zanamivir for the treatment and/or prevention of
infection with these new influenza A (H1N1) viruses. 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. During the current outbreak, the priority use for
influenza antiviral drugs during is to treat severe influenza illness.
How long can an infected person spread this virus to others?
At the current time, CDC believes that this virus has the same properties in terms of spread as
seasonal flu viruses. With seasonal flu, studies have shown that people may be contagious from
one day before they develop symptoms to up to 7 days after they get sick. Children, especially
younger children, might potentially be contagious for longer periods. CDC is studying the virus
and its capabilities to try to learn more and will provide more information as it becomes available.
What surfaces are most likely to be sources of contamination?
Germs can be spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and
then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth. Droplets from a cough or sneeze of an infected
person move through the air. Germs can be spread when a person touches respiratory droplets
from another person on a surface like a desk, for example, and then touches their own eyes,
mouth or nose before washing their hands.
What can I do to protect myself from getting sick?
There is no vaccine available right now to protect against this new H1N1 virus. 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:
* Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the
trash after you use it.
* 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 close contact with sick people.
Stay home if you are sick for 7 days after your symptoms begin or until you have been symptom-
free for 24 hours, whichever is longer. This is to keep from infecting others and spreading the
virus further.
Other important actions that you can take are:
* Follow public health advice regarding school closures, avoiding crowds and other social
distancing measures.
* Be prepared in case you get sick and need to stay home for a week or so; a supply of over-the-
counter medicines, alcohol-based hand rubs, tissues and other related items might could be
useful and help avoid the need to make trips out in public while you are sick and contagious.
What is the best way to keep from spreading the virus through coughing or sneezing?
If you are sick, limit your contact with other people as much as possible. Do not go to work or
school if ill for 7 days or until your symptoms go away (whichever is longer). Cover your mouth
and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting
sick. Put your used tissue in the waste basket. Cover your cough or sneeze if you do not have a
tissue. Then, clean your hands, and do so every time you cough or sneeze.
What is the best technique for washing my hands to avoid getting the flu?
Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. Wash with soap and water or clean
with alcohol-based hand cleaner. We recommend that when you wash your hands -- with soap
and warm water -- that you wash for 15 to 20 seconds. When soap and water are not available,
alcohol-based disposable hand wipes or gel sanitizers may be used. You can find them in most
supermarkets and drugstores. If using gel, rub your hands until the gel is dry. The gel doesn't
need water to work; the alcohol in it kills the germs on your hands.
What should I do if I get sick?
If you live in areas where cases have been identified and become ill with influenza-like
symptoms, including fever, body aches, runny nose, sore throat, nausea, or vomiting or diarrhea,
you may want to contact their health care provider, particularly if you are worried about your
symptoms. Your health care provider will determine whether influenza testing or treatment is
needed.
If you are sick, you should stay home and avoid contact with other people as much as possible to
keep from spreading your illness to others.
If you become ill and experience any of the following warning signs, seek emergency medical
care.
In children emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:
* Fast breathing or trouble breathing
* Bluish or gray skin color
* Not drinking enough fluids
* Not waking up or not interacting
* Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
* Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough
* Fever with a rash
In adults, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:
* Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
* Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
* Sudden dizziness
* Confusion
* Severe or persistent vomiting
What is CDC doing in response to the outbreak?
CDC has implemented its emergency response. The agency’s goals are to reduce transmission
and illness severity, and provide information to help health care providers, public health officials
and the public address the challenges posed by the new virus. CDC continues to issue new
interim guidance for clinicians and public health professionals. In addition, CDC’s Division of the
Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) continues to send antiviral drugs, personal protective
equipment, and respiratory protection devices to all 50 states and U.S. territories to help them
respond to the outbreak.
What epidemiological investigations are taking place in response to the recent outbreak?
CDC works very closely with state and local officials in areas where human cases of H1N1
(swine flu) infections have been identified. In California and Texas, where EpiAid teams have been
deployed, many epidemiological activities are taking place or planned including:
* Active surveillance in the counties where infections in humans have been identified;
* Studies of health care workers who were exposed to patients infected with the virus to see if
they became infected;
* Studies of households and other contacts of people who were confirmed to have been infected
to see if they became infected;
* Study of a public high school where three confirmed human cases of influenza A (H1N1) of
swine origin occurred to see if anyone became infected and how much contact they had with a
confirmed case; and
* Study to see how long a person with the virus infection sheds the virus.
How long can influenza virus remain viable 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.
What kills influenza virus?
Influenza virus is destroyed by heat (167-212°F [75-100°C]). In addition, several chemical
germicides, including chlorine, hydrogen peroxide, detergents (soap), iodophors (iodine-based
antiseptics), and alcohols are effective against human influenza viruses if used in proper
concentration for a sufficient length of time. For example, wipes or gels with alcohol in them can
be used to clean hands. The gels should be rubbed into hands until they are dry.
How should waste disposal be handled to prevent the spread of influenza virus?
To prevent the spread of influenza virus, it is recommended that tissues and other disposable
items used by an infected person be thrown in the trash. Additionally, persons should wash their
hands with soap and water after touching used tissues and similar waste.
Who is in charge of medicine in the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) once it is deployed?
Local health officials have full control of SNS medicine once supplies are deployed to a city, state,
or territory. Federal, state, and local community planners are working together to ensure that
SNS medicines will be delivered to the affected area as soon as possible. Many cities, states, and
territories have already received SNS supplies. After CDC sends medicine to a state or city,
control and distribution of the supply is at the discretion of that state or local health department.
Most states and cities also have their own medicines that they can access to treat infected
persons.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
INFORMATION Adapted on May 3 2009 from CDC.GOV
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