H1N1 Latest News

H1N1 Update - October 22nd, 2009: Shortages of the H1N1 vaccine are being seen across the world as shipments have been delayed or depleted shortly after arriving. Currently the H1N1 vaccine is being made available to those patients considered to be in the high-risk category. According to the CDC, flu activity is now widespread in 46 states. Doctors are reporting a higher-than normal amount of patients with influenza-type symptoms than seen in previous years.

What is H1N1?

H1N1 or the H1N1 Flu (oftentimes referred to as the swine flu) is an influenza introduced in the United States in April of 2009. H1N1 is spread through the same mechanisms as the regular flu which is by person-to-person contact. This was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization in June of 2009.

The reason this virus is sometimes referred to as the "Swine Flu" is because the genes in the virus are very similar to those found in a flu virus spread amongst pigs in the United States. It should be clearly understood that eating pork will not transfer the virus to humans in any way. The H1N1 virus also has genes from the avian and human flu virus making it a combination of multiple flu viruses all in one.

How Does H1N1 Spread?

H1N1 spreads the same way that the flu normally does - through human contact. When a person with the flu sneezes or coughs it can easily be transmitted to anyone that is within their vicinity. The H1N1 virus can also spread through contact with an object that was touched by someone with the flu. This is why it is very important to keep your hands away from your face and wash your hands as frequently as possible.

It is important to note that most people who have been infected with H1N1 have recovered without medical treatment.

What are the symptoms of H1N1?

There are a number of symptoms associated with the H1N1 virus - these include; runny nose, body aches, cough, fever, sore throat, and fatigue. It is also possible to have some diarrhea or vomiting as a result of H1N1.

Just because you have one or several of these symptoms does not mean you have the H1N1 virus but it is a good idea to consult your doctor if you think you may be infected with H1N1.