What is Influenza H1N1 flu?

Influenza H1N1 (also known as swine flu) is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses that causes regular outbreaks in pigs. People do not normally get Influenza H1N1, but human infections can and do happen. Influenza H1N1 viruses have been reported to spread from person-to-person, but in the past, this transmission was limited and not sustained beyond three people.

Learn more: http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/frequently_asked_questions/about_disease/en/index.html

What are the signs and symptoms of Influenza H1N1 in people?

The symptoms are similar to those of regular human flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. In the past, severe illness and deaths have been reported with influenza H1N1 infection in people. Like seasonal flu, influenza H1N1 flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.

How does Influenza H1N1 flu spread?

Spread of the influenza 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 of people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.

How can someone with the flu infect someone else?

Infected people may be able to infect others beginning one day before symptoms develop and up to seven or more days after becoming sick. That means that you may be able to pass on the flu to someone else before you know you are sick, as well as while you are sick.

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 touch surfaces that may be contaminated with the flu virus. Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

Are there medicines to treat influenza H1N1?

Yes. Antiviral drugs are prescription medicines 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. For treatment, antiviral drugs work best if started soon after getting sick (within 2 days of symptoms). Only a doctor can determine if you need treatment with these drugs.

How long can an infected person spread influenza H1N1 to others?

People with influenza H1N1 should be considered potentially contagious as long as they are symptomatic and possible for up to 7 days following illness onset. Children, especially younger children, might potentially be contagious for longer periods.

What surfaces are most likely to be sources of contamination?

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 table and then touches their own eyes, mouth or nose before washing their hands.

How long can viruses live outside the body?

We know that some viruses and bacteria can live for two hours or longer on surfaces like tables, doorknobs, and desks. Frequent hand washing will help you reduce the chance of getting contamination from these common surfaces.

What can I do to protect myself from getting sick?

There is no vaccine available to protect against influenza H1N1. There are however everyday actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza. Take these everyday steps to protect your health:

• 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 in this way.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

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. 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. 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. 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.

Can I get Influenza H1N1 from eating or preparing pork?

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

Is it safe to travel?

Yes. The World Health Organisation is not recommending travel restrictions related to the outbreak of the Influenza H1N1 virus. Limiting travel and imposing travel restrictions would have very little effect on stopping the virus from spreading, but would be highly disruptive to the global community. The global response now focuses on minimising the impact of the virus through the rapid identification of cases, and providing patients appropriate medical care.

Learn more: http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/frequently_asked_questions/travel/en/index.html

Can I travel?

If you are feeling unwell or have symptoms of influenza, you should not travel. If you have any doubts about your health, you should check with your health care provider prior to departure.

How can I protect myself from Influenza H1N1 when I am travelling?

People who are ill should delay travel plans and seek medical advice before departure. Returning travelers who become ill should be aware of symptoms and contact their health provider. Travellers can protect themselves and others by following simple prevention practices that apply while travelling and in daily life.

What should I do if I need medical attention?

If possible, contact your health provider before travelling to a health facility and report your symptoms. If you can not contact your health care provider before travelling to a health facility, tell a health care worker of your suspicion of infection immediately after arrival at the clinic or hospital. While in transit, cover your nose and mouth.