What is H1N1 (swine flu)?
2009 H1N1 flu (initially referred to as “swine flu”) is a respiratory disease caused by the type A influenza virus. This virus was first detected in humans in April 2009 and is spreading from person-to-person worldwide. On June 11, 2009, the World Health Organization (WHO) signaled that a pandemic of H1N1 flu was under way.
H1N1 Quick Facts
- Novel Influenza A or 2009 H1N1 flu is a new flu virus strain that originated in swine.
- Influenza is an airborne respiratory disease.
- 2009 H1N1 flu is not contracted by eating pork.
- 2009 H1N1 flu is transmitted through contact with infected people, objects, or animals.
- Seasonal flu vaccine will not protect against 2009 H1N1 flu.
- Influenza viruses can survive on hard surface for two days or cloth objects for 12 days.
- Common symptoms of 2009 H1N1 flu include: coughing, runny nose, body aches and fever, diarrhea, and vomiting.