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H1N1 Influenza (formerly Swine Flu)

Human cases of swine influenza A (H1N1) virus infection have been identified in the United States and other countries.

An investigation and response effort surrounding the outbreak of swine flu is ongoing.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is working very closely with state and local public health officials in states where human cases of swine influenza A (H1N1) have been identified, as well as with health officials in Mexico, Canada and the World Health Organization.

Important Facts about H1N1 Influenza (Swine Flu)

Common Sense Checklist for H1N1 (Swine Flu)

What is H1N1 (swine flu)?
H1N1 is a new influenza virus causing illness in people. This virus was originally referred to as "swine flu" becasue laboratory testing showed that many parts of this new virus were very similar to flu viruses that normally occur in pigs in North America. But further study has shown that this new virus is very different from what normally circulated in North American pigs. It is a combination of viruses that occur pigs, birds and humans. This new virus was first detected in people in the United States in April 2009. Other countries, including Mexico and Canada, have reported people sick with this new virus. This virus is spreading from person-to-person, probably in much the same way that regular seasonal influenza viruses spread.
Are there human infections with H1N1 virus in the U.S.?
Yes. After H1N1 infections were first confirmed in Texas and Southern California, the outbreak intensified rapidly and more states have reported cases of illness from the virus. An updated case count is available on the CDC website. The CDC and state and local health agencies are working together to investigate this situation.
What are the signs and symptoms of this virus in people?
The symptoms of this new H1N1 virus in people are similar to the symptoms of seasonal flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. A significant number of people who have been infected with this virus also have reported diarrhea and vomiting. Also, like seasonal flu, severe illnesses and death has occurred as a result of illness associated with this virus.
How does the H1N1 virus spread and infect others?
H1N1 virus is thought to spread in the same way that seasonal flu spreads. Flu viruses spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing by people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose. Studies have shown that people with seasonal flu may be contagious from one (1) day before they develop symptoms to up to seven (7) days after they get sick. Children, especially younger children, might potentially be contagious for longer periods. Public health agencies are continuing to study the virus to learn more and will provide more information as it becomes available.
Are there medicines to treat the H1N1 virus?
Yes. If you get sick, antiviral drugs can make your illness milder and make you feel better faster. They may also prevent serious flu complications. If you have symptoms, check with your medical provider.
How can I protect myself from getting sick?
There is no vaccine available right now to protect against this new H1N1 virus. There are everyday actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like the flu.
  • 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 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 this way.
  • Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
  • If you get sick, the CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
Can I get the H1N1 virus from eating or preparing pork?
No. The virus is not spread by food. You cannot get this new H1N1 virus from preparing or eating pork or pork products. Eating properly handled and cooked pork products is safe.
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Emergency Warning Signs That Need Urgent Medical Attention

If you become ill and experience any of the following warning signs, seek emergency medical care.

In Children:
  • Fast breathing or trouble breathing
  • Bluish skin color (for fair tones) and grayish skin color (for darker tones)
  • 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 with fever and worse cough
  • Fever with a rash
In Adults:
  • Fast breathing or trouble breathing
  • Bluish skin color (for fair tones) and grayish skin color (for darker tones)
  • Not drinking enough fluids
  • Not waking up or not interacting
  • Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough
  • Fever with a rash
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For more information, visit the following sites:

Centers for Disease Control (CDC): www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/

Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH): www.idph.state.il.us/flu/swine_flu.htm

World Health Organization (WHO): www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html