Swine Influenza (swine flu) is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses that infect pigs. People do not normally get swine flu, but human infections can and do happen. This swine influenza A (H1N1) virus is contagious and is spreading from human to human; however it is presently not considered to pose any more risk to humans than seasonal influenza.
What are the signs and symptoms of swine flu in people?
The symptoms of swine flu in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue, diarrhea and vomiting. In the past, severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and deaths have been reported with swine flu infection in people. Like seasonal flu, swine flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.
Tips to help prevent the spread of the virus:
Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. If you don’t have a tissue, sneeze or cough into your elbow and not your hand. Masks are generally not needed.
Clean your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners and wipes also work well.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
Remind your children to practice healthy habits, too.
If you get sick with influenza, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
What should I do if I get sick?
If you live in areas where swine influenza cases have been identified and become ill with influenza-like symptoms, including fever, body aches (myalgia), runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, contact your health care provider. Your health care provider will determine whether influenza testing or treatment is needed.
Can I get swine influenza from eating or preparing pork?
No. Swine influenza viruses are not spread by food.
Up-to-Date information on the illness is available at:
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/general_info.htm or1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636).
Find helpful checklists to prepare your family, business, and community:
