Swine Flu Fact Sheet
What is H1N1 flu?
H1N1 flu is a respiratory disease caused by a form of type A influenza virus. It is also known as “swine flu.†The H1N1 virus is a mutated form of the virus that commonly causes flu outbreaks in pigs, combined with genetic material from bird and human flu viruses. This new virus infects humans and spreads from person to person, just like the regular, seasonal human flu.
What are the symptoms of H1N1 flu infection?
In people, the symptoms are very similar to those of the seasonal flu. These include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, and tiredness (fatigue). Some individuals have also complained of diarrhea and vomiting. Only a blood test done at a medical laboratory can confirm an H1N1 infection.
When can one be infected by the H1N1 flu virus?
The virus is most infectious from one day before symptoms show up in an infected person up to 7 days after the person becomes sick.
How serious is the H1N1 flu?
This type of flu, although it has caused hospitalizations and deaths, is not more virulent than the seasonal flu. The causes of death due to flu viruses are usually pneumonia and respiratory failure, and when the virus worsens an existing chronic medical condition. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggest that children aged 5-18 years and adults aged 25-49 years are most affected by the H1N1 virus.
Can one get H1N1 flu from eating or preparing pork?
There is no evidence that humans can get infected by the virus from eating pork or pork products. When properly prepared, pork products are safe to eat.
What should one do to avoid getting H1N1?
Frequent hand washing is the most important preventative measure. If soap and water are not available, use alcohol based hand sanitizers. Getting plenty of rest, fluids, and nutritious food are also good practices. Avoiding contact with anyone who is sick is very important, as the virus is still infectious until 7 or more days after a person comes down with the flu.
Are there medicines to treat H1N1 flu?
Antiviral medicines, such as oseltamivir or zanamivir, prevent the H1N1 virus from making more of themselves in the body. These medicines can make the flu symptoms less severe and shorten the illness. Because these antivirals are available by prescription only, it is best to see your doctor immediately when you suspect you have any symptoms of the flu. Antibiotics are not helpful, because they do not kill nor weaken the flu virus.
What should I do if I or a family member becomes sick?
Call the doctor immediately. Have the patient stay home and avoid contact with other people. The virus is spread through the air from droplets in an infected person’s sneeze or cough. Dispose of used facial tissues carefully and immediately. Family members should wash their hands frequently and avoid touching their eyes, nose, and mouth. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are helpful. Caregivers should disinfect surfaces like doorknobs, tables, and bathroom counters because viruses can live on these for two hours or longer.
These websites are useful for more in-depth and up-to-date information:
Missouri Department of Health H1N1 Flu Hotline
1-877-FLU-4141 (1-877-358-4141)