Q: What is Novel Influenza A (H1N1)?
A: The CDC states that the H1N1 virus (originally referred to as "swine flu") is a new respiratory virus similar to Influenza A. Recent tests have shown
the virus is actually different from the virus typically found in North American pigs. The virus is capable of being passed between humans.
Q: How does the H1N1 flu spread?
A: Spread of this H1N1 virus is thought to be happening in the same way that seasonal flu spreads. Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to
person through coughing or sneezing by people with influenza. People may become infected by touching surfaces such as a counter top with flu
viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.
Q: Where do these current human cases of Novel Influenza A (H1N1) stem from?
A: According to the CDC, human infections with the Novel Influenza A (H1N1) were first reported in late March/ early April 2009 in Southern California
and San Antonio, Texas. The original source of the infection is unknown. Currently, there are confirmed cases in the US, Mexico and Canada.
Q: Is the current strain of Novel Influenza A (H1N1) contagious?
A: Yes, the CDC has determined that this Novel Influenza A (H1N1) strain is contagious and can spread from human to human.
Q: How do I protect myself and my family from Novel Influenza A (H1N1)?
A: Take these everyday steps to protect your health:
* Wash your hands. After you sneeze, handle raw food or use the toilet, be sure to wash your hands. Before you eat you should wash your hands
as well. Proper hand washing takes about 20 seconds (about as long as the Happy Birthday song) using a bar or liquid soap. Alternatively,
alcohol-based hand sanitizers are also effective.
(Source: mayoclinic.com)
* Disinfect the surfaces in your home. By cleaning and disinfecting surfaces in your home such as countertops, telephones and doorknobs you can
help prevent viruses from spreading from person to person.
* Avoid close contact with sick people. If you do come into contact with someone who is sick, avoid touching your nose and mouth. This will help
prevent germs from spreading.
* If you are sick, stay home for 7 days after your symptoms begin or until you have been symptom-free for 24 hours, whichever is longer. This is to
keep from infecting others and spreading the virus further.
Q: What are the signs and symptoms of this virus in people?
A: The symptoms of this new H1N1 flu 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.
Q: What surfaces are most likely to be sources of contamination?
A: Germs can be spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.
Droplets from a cough or sneeze of an infected person move through the air. Germs can be spread when a person touches respiratory droplets from
another person on a surface like a desk, for example, and then touches their own eyes, mouth or nose before washing their hands.
 |
H1N1 Frequently Asked Questions