What is swine flu, or the H1N1 flu?
The swine flu, which is now being called the H1N1 Flu, is a respiratory disease caused by the type A flu (influenza). It causes regular outbreaks in pigs, hence the name. People don’t normally get this kind of flu, but infections can and do happen.
Are there human infections with this flu in the United States?
Yes. The first cases in the U.S. were reported in California and Texas but now other states, including Maine, have reported cases. This flu has also been reported in several countries besides the United States and Mexico. An updated case count of confirmed infections in the U.S. can be viewed on-line at: http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/investigation.htm .
Is the flu virus contagious?
Yes. It can spread from person to person, but it is not known yet how easily the virus spreads between people.
What are the signs and symptoms in people?
The symptoms are similar to regular human flu and include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Body aches
- Headache
- Chills
- Fatigue
Some people report diarrhea and vomiting. Severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and deaths have been reported. This can happen with any flu virus. Like any seasonal flu, H1N1 may cause underlying chronic medical conditions to worsen.
How does it spread?
It is thought to spread the same way any flu spreads – through coughing and sneezing by people with the illness. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with the virus on it, then touching their eyes, mouth, or nose.
How do people with the flu infect others?
Infected people may be able to infect others beginning one (1) day before their symptoms develop. They may also be infectious up to seven (7) or more days after becoming sick. Children with this flu may be contagious for even longer periods of time. You can pass the flu on to someone before you know you are sick, as well as while you are sick.
What can I do to prevent getting the flu?
The most important thing you can do: Wash your hands. Try to stay as healthy as possible. Get plenty of sleep, stay physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat healthy foods. Try to avoid touching surfaces that may be contaminated with the virus. Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Are there medicines to treat this flu?
Yes. There are antiviral prescription drugs that are available to treat this flu. They come in a variety of forms – pills, liquid, and inhaler – and are designed to keep the virus from reproducing. If you get sick, the antiviral drugs make the illness milder and help you feel better more quickly. They may also prevent serious complications. These drugs work best if started soon after getting sick – within two (2) days of symptoms. In some instances these drugs are prescribed for prevention.
How long can the virus live outside the body?
Viruses and bacteria can live two (2) hours or longer on surfaces such as doorknobs, phones, desks, and tables. Frequent hand washing is crucial to help reduce contamination.
What can I do to protect myself and others from getting sick?
There is no vaccine yet to protect against the H1N1 flu. But there are everyday things you can do to protect yourself from the flu such as:
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
- Throw the tissue in the trash immediately after using it.
- If you don’t have a tissue when you cough or sneeze, bend your elbow and cough or sneeze into your sleeve, covering your mouth as much as possible.
- Wash your hands often, for 15 to 20 seconds at a time with soap and warm water, especially after you cough or sneeze or before you eat. Alcohol-based hand cleaners, like Purell, are also effective. If you use gel sanitizers, be sure to rub your hands until dry.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.
- Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
- Do not go to school or work if you are ill.
What should I do if I get sick?
If you become ill with flu-like symptoms, you may want to contact your health care provider. Your health care provider will determine whether flu testing or treatment is needed.
If you are sick stay home and avoid contact with others so you don’t spread the illness.
What are the warning signs that need emergency medical care?
In children – these signs need urgent medical attention:
- Fast breathing or trouble breathing
- Bluish 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 and there is worse cough
- Fever with a rash
In adults – these signs need urgent medical attention:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
- Sudden dizziness
- Confusion
- Severe or persistent vomiting
How serious is this flu?
Like all flu viruses, it can vary in severity from mild to severe and can be fatal.
Can I get this flu from eating pork?
No. This virus is not spread by food.
Farm animals – if you raise pigs:
Studies show swine flu H1N1 is common in pigs – about 30% of the pigs in the U.S. have antibody evidence of having had H1N1 infection. Outbreaks normally occur in colder weather months and sometimes with the introduction of new pigs into susceptible herds. Signs of swine flu in pigs include: sudden onset of fever, depression, coughing (barking), discharge from the nose or eyes, sneezing, breathing difficulty, eye redness or inflammation, and going off feed. Be sure to wash your hands frequently after being exposed to or handling animals. Contact your veterinarian if your pigs show sign of illness. If you or your family become ill with flu-like symptoms, contact your healthcare provider. |
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