Swine Flu (H1N1): Transmission, Symptoms, and Prevention

Swine influenza (H1N1) is a respiratory illness caused by an influenza A virus. It is not a foodborne disease—you cannot catch it from eating pork.

Transmission

• Respiratory droplets: Coughing, sneezing, talking within ~6 feet.
• Contact: Touching contaminated surfaces (fomites) then touching eyes/nose/mouth.
• Airborne: Possible in enclosed, poorly ventilated spaces (small particle aerosols).

Symptoms

Similar to seasonal flu; onset 1–4 days post-exposure:

• Fever/chills (not always present)
• Cough, sore throat
• Runny/stuffy nose
• Body aches, headache, fatigue
• Vomiting/diarrhea (more common in children)

High-Risk Groups for Complications

• Pregnant women
• Children <5 years (especially <2)
• Adults ≥65 years
• Chronic conditions: asthma, COPD, diabetes, heart disease, immunosuppression, obesity (BMI ≥40)

Prevention & Treatment

• Annual flu vaccine: Includes H1N1 strain; best protection.
• Antivirals (oseltamivir, baloxavir, zanamivir): Most effective if started ≤48 hours of symptom onset; recommended for high-risk/hospitalized patients.
• Hygiene: Handwashing, masking when ill, ventilation.

Seek care for difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, persistent high fever, or worsening chronic conditions.