Frequently asked questions about H1N1 virus

• What is influenza?

  Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by viruses. Infection results in mild to severe illness and can lead to death. Every year, an average of 5 to 20 percent of the U.S. population gets the flu. Some influenza viruses can also infect birds, pigs, horses, seals, whales and other animals.

• How is the H1N1 (swine) flu different from seasonal flu?

  The H1N1 influenza (or swine flu) is a new strain of the influenza virus. Its symptoms are similar to those of the seasonal flu and may include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue and the worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions. Some people have also reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with H1N1 flu.

  Unlike with the seasonal flu, young people are at higher risk of H1N1 infection than people 65 and older. However, infected people 65 or older are still at increased risk of H1N1 influenza-related complications.

  The worldwide spread of the H1N1 virus this spring was both rapid and unusual as it affected some countries outside of the timeframe of a normal flu season. While most people who have become ill with the H1N1 virus have recovered without needing medical treatment, hospitalizations and deaths have occurred.

• How does H1N1 spread?

  The H1N1 flu and seasonal flu spread in much the same way. Flu viruses spread mainly from person to person when people with influenza cough, sneeze, or touch things that others touch. People infected with the H1N1 virus can spread it to others one day before symptoms develop and up to seven or more days after becoming ill. That means that you may be able to pass the flu to someone before you know you are sick and after you start to feel better.

• How serious is the H1N1 flu threat?

  The H1N1 virus is a potentially serious health issue for families, schools and businesses across the country and world. The federal government estimates that 30 to 50 percent of the country’s population could become infected by H1N1 influenza this fall and winter.

  Individuals with underlying chronic health conditions may be more vulnerable to the H1N1 influenza virus. While it is uncertain exactly how widespread or severe the H1N1 flu virus will be, there are simple things people can do now to help prevent and prepare for H1N1.

• What should I do to keep from getting the H1N1 flu?

  The American Red Cross and government health officials recommend that people use common sense public health practices to reduce the spread of both the H1N1 virus and the seasonal flu virus.

  These include:

  • Cover mouth with tissues when coughing or sneezing; if no tissue is available cough into your elbow
  • Wash hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that has an alcohol content of 62 percent or greater
  • Avoid touching eyes, nose, mouth and surfaces that may be contaminated
  • Stay in good general health by getting sufficient sleep, being physically active, managing stress, drinking plenty of fluids and eating nutritious foods
  • Minimize contact with people who are sick
  • Stay home if you become sick

• How can I prepare for a possible resurgence of H1N1 flu?

  Following the three basic preparedness steps – get a kit, make a plan, and be informed – can help individuals and families be prepared.

  1. People can store extra supplies that may be needed at home (get a kit).
  2. Ask about school and employer’s plans, and have a plan in place in case it’s necessary to stay at home for an extended period of time (make a plan).
  3. Find out how public health officials will communicate if the threat becomes widespread (be informed).

• What is the best technique for washing my hands to avoid getting the flu?

  Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. Wash with soap and water, or clean with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that you wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.

  Teach children to sing “Happy Birthday” twice when washing hands to know how long to wash and to keep them engaged.

  When soap and water are not available, alcohol-based disposable hand wipes or gel sanitizers with 62 percent alcohol content or greater may be used. You can find them in most supermarkets and drugstores. When using gel, rub your hands until the gel is dry. The gel does not need water to work as the alcohol content kills germs on hands.

• How long can viruses live outside the body?

  Some viruses and bacteria can live from 2 to 8 hours on surfaces like cafeteria tables, bus poles, doorknobs and desks. Frequent hand washing and disinfecting of commonly handled surfaces with household cleaners will help you reduce the chance of contamination from these sources.

• What should I do if I get sick?

  If you become ill with flu-like symptoms including fever, coughing, body aches, runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea, you should stay home and avoid contact with other people as much as possible to keep from spreading your illness to others. If you have severe illness or are at high risk for flu complications, the CDC recommends that you contact your health care provider or seek medical care. Your health care provider will determine whether flu testing or treatment is needed.

  If you or your child becomes ill and experience any of the following warning signs, seek emergency medical care.

  In children, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:

  • Fast breathing or trouble breathing
  • Bluish or gray skin color
  • Not drinking enough fluids
  • Severe or persistent vomiting
  • 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
     

  In adults, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:

  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
  • Sudden dizziness
  • Confusion
  • Severe or persistent vomiting
  • Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough

• Does the H1N1 vaccine protect against the seasonal flu?

  No. The H1N1 and seasonal flu viruses are different, and people will need to get separate vaccinations for each flu strain.

• How can I be social and stay in touch with people during a serious flu outbreak without the risk of spreading the flu?

  During a flu pandemic you may be asked to limit your face-to-face contact with other people. Remember that there are a number of different ways to stay connected with friends and family such as by telephone, mail and the Internet. When you encounter others during a flu pandemic, use common sense and follow guidance from local public health officials to decrease the chance of spreading the virus.