What is novel H1N1 (swine flu)?
Novel H1N1 (referred to as "swine flu' early on) is a new influenza virus causing illness in people. This new virus was first detected in people in the United States in April 2009. This virus is spreding from person-to-person worldwide, probably in much the same way that regular seasonal influenza viruses spread. On June 11, 2009, the World Health Organization (WHO) signaled that a pandemic of novwl H1N1 flu was underway.

What are the signs and symptons of this virus in people?

- fever, cough, sore throat, runny, stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills,fatigue

A significant number of people who have been infected eith this virus also have reported diarrhea and vomitting. Severe illness and death has occured as a result of illness assocated with this virus.



Take these everyday steps to protect your health:

~* cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.

~* Wash your hand often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaner are also effective.

~* Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.

~* Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

~* If you are sick with flu-like illness, you should stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities(your fevershould be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine). Keep away from others as much as possible to keep from making others sick.

**all this information taken from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu