Question

Check your answers.

H1N1 Influenza

How is the H1N1 influenza virus spread?

Why is H1N1 influenza called “swine flu”?

What steps can someone take to prevent or treat H1N1 influenza?

Which of the following did you include in your response? Check all that apply.

Like the seasonal flu, H1N1 influenza is spread from person-to-person.

H1N1 influenza is often called “swine flu” because many of the genes in the virus were very similar to influenza viruses that typically occur in pigs in North America.

H1N1 influenza can be avoided by getting vaccinated, washing your hands, avoiding contact with sick people, and staying home if you are sick.

Answer 1

Yes — those three items are correct and appropriate to include.

- Spread: Like seasonal flu, H1N1 is spread person-to-person (mainly by respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes), and by touching contaminated surfaces then touching your face.
- Name: It’s often called “swine flu” because many genes in the 2009 H1N1 virus were very similar to influenza viruses that normally circulate in pigs in North America (the virus resulted from reassortment involving swine, avian and human strains).
- Prevention/treatment: Best prevention includes vaccination, frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with sick people, and staying home when sick. Additional measures include respiratory etiquette (cover coughs), cleaning frequently touched surfaces, masks in some situations, and antiviral treatment (e.g., oseltamivir or zanamivir) when indicated — especially for people at higher risk or with severe illness.

Want this phrased into a short patient handout or a longer explanation for clinicians?