H1N1 is a respiratory disease of swine origin caused by type-A influenza that regularly causes outbreaks of influenza among pigs. These viruses do not normally infect humans, however, human infections do occur, and cases of human-to-human spread of the viruses have been documented.
There is no evidence at this time that swine in the United States are infected with this virus strain, and humans cannot contract the virus through eating pork or pork products. For more on the U.S. swine population, please visit the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Web site.
The Centers for Disease Control recommend the following good health habits to prevent getting sick:
1. Avoid close contact.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.
2. Stay home when you are sick.
If possible, stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness.
3. Cover your mouth and nose.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.
4. Clean your hands.
Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs.
5. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.
6. Practice other good health habits.
Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious food.
