Swine Flu

Novel H1N1 influenza is a new virus that has been identified and is spreading in the United States and internationally. The virus is contagious.  Most people who have become ill with this new virus have recovered without requiring medical treatment.

How is H1N1 Flu Spread?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the H1N1 virus spreads the same way seasonal influenza viruses spread - mainly from person to person 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. 

Symptoms and Risks of H1N1 Flu

The symptoms of H1N1 flu in people are expected to be similar to the symptoms of regular human seasonal flu and include fever, lethargy, lack of appetite and coughing. Some people with H1N1 also have reported runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.  While most people who have been sick have recovered without needing medical treatment, hospitalizations and deaths from infection with this virus have occurred.

Everyday actions you can take to stay healthy

• 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 that way.

Try to avoid close contact with sick people

• Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people. 
• If you get sick, the CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them. 
• At this time, CDC recommends that U.S. travelers avoid all nonessential travel to Mexico.  

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, August 2009