H1N1 (Swine Flu)

H1N1 (swine flu) is a respiratory illness found in pigs. Although it doesn’t usually infect humans, there was a world-wide H1N1 pandemic in 2009.

• Although the World Health Organization (WHO) announced the pandemic was over in August 2010, H1N1 is still circulating.
• Getting the flu vaccine is your best protection against H1N1.
• You cannot get H1N1 from properly handled and cooked pork or pork products.
• Symptoms of H1N1 are similar to seasonal flu symptoms.

What is H1N1 flu?

H1N1 (swine flu) is a respiratory illness found in pigs. Although H1N1 viruses do not normally infect humans, a human H1N1 pandemic occurred in 2009. Human cases of H1N1 usually occur in people exposed to infected pigs. You cannot get H1N1 by eating properly handled and cooked pork or pork products.

Is H1N1 still a threat?

On August 10, 2010 WHO announced that the world is in a post-pandemic period. However, H1N1 is still circulating. An H1N1 vaccine is included in the 2011-2012 seasonal flu vaccine. 

What are the symptoms of H1N1 flu?

The symptoms of H1N1 are the same as seasonal flu symptoms. You are more likely to experience vomiting and diarrhea with H1N1.

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.  The 2011-2012 flu vaccine includes protection against the H1N1 flu virus. You should also follow our everyday steps to keep yourself healthy this flu season.

I have H1N1. What should I do?

If your health care provider has diagnosed you with H1N1, you should follow our treatment recommendations and your health care provider’s orders.

Your health care provider might recommend wearing a facemask around healthy people, especially those at high risk. This will prevent you from spreading H1N1.

Who is monitoring H1N1 in the U.S.?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tracks cases of H1N1 in humans. The CDC reports H1N1 cases weekly in its flu surveillance report. The CDC also reports all cases of H1N1 in humans to WHO.

Related Links

Key Facts about Swine Influenza (Swine Flu) in Humans