2009 H1N1 “Swine Flu” Virus
By Vanessa Polvi
WIN for Alaska, Inc. Wellness Consultant

What is the 2009 H1N1 virus?
This virus was first detected in April 2009, and spreads in the same manner as the seasonal flu. The 2009 H1N1 “Swine Flu” virus gets its unique name from the fact that it has been found in flu strains that specifically target North American swine. With further investigation, health officials have been able to determine that this specific virus actually carries genes for 2 different types of swine flu (North American and European), along with genes related to bird flu (avian), and the human flu.

How does the swine flu spread?
It can be spread by contact with contaminated droplets of saliva from a person who is coughing or sneezing and is infected with the flu. People who are infected have the ability to spread the virus one day before their symptoms arise and 5-7 days after the onset of symptoms. Touching surfaces with the live flu virus and then rubbing your mouth, nose or eyes can also spread the virus. It is important to recognize that the flu can live for 2-8 hours on environmental surfaces.

What are the symptoms to look for?
The symptoms of the swine flu mimic those of the seasonal flu. These include: Fever, sore throat, cough, runny and/or stuffy nose, body aches, headaches, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported vomiting and diarrhea. The only way to determine whether or not you have the seasonal flu or the swine flu is to get properly tested in a laboratory setting.

What should you do if you experience flu-like symptoms?
If you believe you may have the swine flu, contact your primary care provider immediately. Be prepared to give details about the length and severity of your symptoms. Your provider will determine whether testing and/or treatment is needed. Emergency care is needed when children or adults experience any of the following symptoms: In children: Fever with a rash, dehydration, rapid breathing, bluish skin, sluggish interaction, when flu-like symptoms improve and then return with a more severe cough, increased irritability, or not wanting to be held. In Adults: Difficulty breathing, dizziness, confusion, severe or persistent vomiting, and pain or pressure in the chest or stomach.

Who is at “high risk” for developing serious complications if they become infected with the swine flu?
People over the age of 65, children younger than five years old, women who are pregnant, and any person with a chronic disease condition should take extra precaution and get medical attention right away if they experience any flu-like symptoms.

Treatment options:
There are treatment options available for both the seasonal flu and the swine flu. It is up to your primary care provider to determine which “anti-viral” drugs you may need. In most cases, drugs are only given to high-risk cases or individuals who are very sick. The CDC recommends that your doctor give you osteltamivir (Tamiflu) or zanamivir (Relenza). These drugs work best if you receive them within 2 days of becoming ill. It is important to note that like the seasonal flu, most people who get infected with the swine flu recover without medication.

2009 H1N1 vaccinations:
There is a vaccination available to help prevent the infection of the 2009 H1NI flu virus. According to the CDC, the production of the vaccination is underway and there will be enough vaccinations to supply the need in the United States in the coming months. The initial supply is being used to vaccinate specific groups of people who are of the highest priority. These groups include pregnant women, children between 6 months and 4 years of age, anyone in a household who has contact with kids younger than 6 months old, health-care workers who have direct patient contact and all kids aged 5 to 18 who have underlying medical conditions.

Actions you can take to stay healthy:
• The CDC recommends that if you are sick, it is best to stay home in order to prevent the spread of germs and associated viruses.
• Wash your hands regularly with soap, especially after being in public locations. Hand sanitizers are a good alternative when soap and water is not available.
• Cover your mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing.
• Avoid touching your mouth, nose, or eyes as germs spread most easily through these direct routes.
• Stay informed! For more information regarding the swine flu, please visit the CDC’s comprehensive website: www.cdc.gov.

Sources: Centers for Disease Control, October 20, 2009: “The 2009 H1N1 Flu and You”;
World Health Organization, October 20, 2009: “Pandemic Influenza Vaccines: Current Status”