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Public health officials within the United States and throughout the world are investigating outbreaks of  H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu). 

H1N1 is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by a type A influenza virus that regularly causes outbreaks of influenza among pigs.  H1N1 viruses do not normally infect humans; however, human infections with swine flu do occur.  Public health officials have determined that this strain of swine flu virus spreads from human to human and can cause illness.

The outbreak is ongoing and additional cases are expected. For more information concerning H1N1infection, please see the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website: http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/.  For specific information on travel precautions and an update on the affected areas, please visit: www.cdc.gov/travel.

The symptoms of H1N1 in people are similar to the symptoms of seasonal flu in humans and may include:

• Fever (greater than 100°F or 37.8°C)
• Sore throat
• Cough
• Stuffy nose
• Chills
• Headache and body aches
• Fatigue

Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with H1N1. Severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and deaths have been reported with swine flu infection in people. Like seasonal flu, swine flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.H1N1

People entering the United States who are experiencing symptoms consistent with H1N1 and have traveled to an affected area (see http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/investigation.htm for affected areas), or have been exposed to someone possibly infected with swine flu, during the last 7 days should report their illnesses to their health care provider immediately and inform them of their recent travel. H1N1

People traveling from the United States to affected areas should be aware of the risk of illness with H1N1 and take precautions.

To prevent the spread of H1N1:

• Avoid contact with ill persons.
• When you cough or sneeze, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or your sleeve (if you do not have a tissue).  Throw used tissues in a trash can.
• After you cough or sneeze, wash your hands with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand gel.
• If you think you are ill with flu, avoid close contact with others as much as possible. Stay at home or in your hotel room.  Seek medical care if you are severely ill (such as having trouble breathing).  There are antiviral medications for prevention and treatment of H1N1 that a doctor can prescribe.  Do not go to work, school, or travel while ill.