What is H1N1 flu?
H1N1 is a flu virus. When it was first detected in 2009, it was called “swine flu” because the virus was similar to those found in pigs.
The H1N1 virus is currently a seasonal flu virus found in humans. Although it also circulates in pigs, you cannot get it by eating properly handled and cooked pork or pork products.
What causes swine flu?
The cause of the 2009 swine flu was an influenza A virus type designated as H1N1. In 2011, a new swine flu virus was detected. The new strain was named influenza A (H3N2)v. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported increased numbers of people infected in the 2012-2013 flu season. Currently, there are not large numbers of people infected with H3N2v. Unfortunately, another virus termed H3N2 (note no "v" in its name) has been detected and caused flu, but this strain is different from H3N2v. In general, all of the influenza A viruses have a structure similar to the H1N1 virus; each type has a somewhat different H and/or N structure.What are the symptoms of swine flu?
Symptoms of swine flu are similar to most influenza infections: fever (100 F or greater), cough, nasal secretions, fatigue, and headache, with fatigue being reported in most infected individuals. Some patients may also get a sore throat, rash, body aches, headaches, chills, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In Mexico, many of the initial patients infected with H1N1 influenza were young adults, which made some investigators speculate that a strong immune response, as seen in young people, may cause some collateral tissue damage.The incubation period from exposure to first symptoms is about one to four days, with an average of two days. The symptoms last about one to two weeks and can last longer if the person has a severe infection.
How does H1N1 flu spread?
The H1N1 flu virus spreads between people in the same way that seasonal flu viruses spread.
How can I prevent H1N1 flu?
The best way to prevent the H1N1 flu is to get the seasonal flu vaccine which also includes protection against the H1N1 flu virus. However take these everyday steps to protect your health:- Cover your cough: 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: Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
- Avoid spreading germs: Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Try to avoid close contact with anyone who is sick. Germs spread this way.
- Stay home if you are sick: If you are sick with flu-like illness, CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. Keep away from others as much as possible to keep from making them sick.
I have H1N1. What should I do?
If your health care provider has diagnosed you with H1N1, you should follow treatment recommendations and your health care provider’s orders.
For treatment, antiviral drugs work best if started soon after getting sick.
For treatment, antiviral drugs work best if started soon after getting sick.
Experts recommend that people who suspect that they have H1N1 infection stay
home and avoid contact with other people.
