H1N1 Flu Q & A
What is the H1N1 flu?
The H1N1 flu is a common disease in pigs that is caused by a flu virus. One version, or strain, of this virus has also infected people.
More about H1N1.
How is H1N1 influenza transmitted?
H1N1 flu is spread by microscopic particles that fly through the air when a person coughs or sneezes. These particles can also land on surfaces. If someone touches these surfaces, they can then transmit the virus to their mouth, nose or eyes. Because it is a respiratory virus, people cannot get H1N1 flu from eating pork or pork products.
What are the symptoms of H1N1 influenza?
Symptoms usually occur two days after the initial infection. Symptoms are non-specific and resemble those of the common flu. They can include fever, coughing, muscle pain and fatigue. H1N1 flu appears to cause more diarrhea and vomiting than normal flu. If you feel you have these symptoms, or other severe flu-like symptoms, please contact your physician.
Find out more about flu symptoms in adults and children.
Why is the concern currently so great?
The World Health Organization has declared H1N1 influenza an international public health emergency. With cases confirmed in the United States, Canada, New Zealand, Spain and Mexico, the virus is widespread.
How can we protect ourselves?
Practice good personal hygiene. Clean your hands well and often. Avoid close contact with people who are sick,and practice cough etiquette (cover your mouth when you cough, then clean your hands afterward). If a pandemic occurs, other public health measures may be recommended at that time.
What should someone do if they become ill after traveling to an area affected by the H1N1 flu?
If they have an illness with a fever after returning from an affected area, especially if it's associated with cough or shortness of breath, they should contact their doctor immediately.
How will Lifespan hospitals treat the H1N1 flu?
We have a detailed plan for the hospitals that has been under development for months and will continue to be refined as the need arises. We are working with the Rhode Island Department of Health and other hospitals throughout the state to coordinate any response that is needed.
All information provided by the Center for Disease Control and Lifespan physicians.
Related H1N1 flu links:
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