WHAT IS H1N1 (SWINE FLU)?

It is a respiratory disease

SYMPTOMS OF H1N1 (SWINE FLU):

May develop two to seven days post exposure
Fever greater than 100 F or 37.8 C
Sore throat
Cough
Stuffy nose
Chills
Headache and body aches
Fatigue
Vomitting and diarrhea in some cases

CAN PEOPLE CATCH H1N1 (SWINE FLU) FROM EATING PORK?

No. Swine influenza viruses are not transmitted by food.

HOW DOES H1N1 (SWINE FLU) SPREAD?

Influenza viruses can be directly transmitted from pigs to people and from people to pigs.  Human-to-human transmission occurs the same way as seasonal flu occurs – through coughing or sneezing of infected people.  People may also become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.

HOW CAN HUMAN INFECTION BE DIAGNOSED?

A respiratory specimen would need to be collected within the first four or five days of illness.  This process would be done through the recommendation of a physician.

WHAT MEDICATIONS ARE AVAILABLE?

At this time, vaccine for prevention is not available. Medication for treatment may be prescribed by your physician.

WHAT YOU CAN DO TO PROTECT YOURSELF

Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue. Throw the tissue in the trash.
Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze.
Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
If you get sick with influenza, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) recommends you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.  Germs are easily spread this way.

EMERGENCY WARNING SIGNS

Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
Sudden dizziness
Confusion
Severe or persistent vomiting