H1N1 Influenza Fact Sheet

What is H1N1 (Swine) Flu?

H1N1 flu is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by a type A influenza virus.

• H1N1 flu viruses do not normally infect humans; however
• Public health officials have determined that this strain spreads from human to human and can cause illness
• The illness cannot be spread by eating pork or pork products
• The incubation period is 1-4 days

Symptoms that could be H1N1 Flu

• Fever over 100 F
• Sore throat and cough
• Stuffy nose
• Chills
• Headache and body aches
• Fatigue

Protecting yourself from H1N1 Flu is the same as  protecting yourself from any illness

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water or waterless hand sanitizers
• Avoid contact with ill persons
• When you cough or sneeze, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or your sleeve.  Throw used tissues in a waste can
• After you cough or sneeze wash your hands
• Clean shared phone receivers, keyboards, door knobs, remotes, etc
• Refrain from sharing personal items such as eating utensils, toothbrushes and towels
• Watch for announcements of an H1N1 flu vaccine and be sure to get one along with a regular flu shot
• Ventilate your room by opening windows daily

If you think you are ill with the flu:

• Avoid close contact with others
• Do not go to class
• Call Health Services at 645-9616 for an assessment of your symptoms

Prevention is your best protection!