How is H1N1 contracted. What are the key facts about human infections with variant viruses. Who is at increased risk of contracting variant flu. Can variant flu viruses spread from person to person. What are the signs and symptoms of variant flu infections.

Understanding Swine Flu and Variant Viruses

Swine flu, a respiratory disease affecting pigs, is caused by type A influenza viruses. These viruses regularly trigger flu outbreaks in pig populations, but rarely affect humans. However, when a swine flu virus infects a human, it’s termed a “variant flu virus.” This distinction is crucial for understanding the potential risks and transmission patterns of these infections.

Pigs infected with swine flu may exhibit various symptoms, including:

• Fever
• Depression
• Coughing (often described as “barking”)
• Runny nose or eyes
• Sneezing
• Breathing difficulties
• Eye redness or inflammation
• Loss of appetite

It’s important to note that some infected pigs may show no signs of illness or only mild symptoms. Swine flu outbreaks in pig populations typically peak during late fall and winter, mirroring the seasonal flu patterns in humans.

Transmission of Variant Flu Viruses to Humans

Human infections with variant flu viruses primarily occur through close contact with infected pigs. This transmission usually happens in specific settings where humans and pigs interact closely, such as:

• Agricultural fairs
• Pig farms
• Swine industry workplaces

The primary mode of transmission is thought to be through respiratory droplets. When an infected pig coughs or sneezes, virus-laden droplets can spread through the air. If these droplets land in a person’s nose or mouth, or are inhaled, infection can occur. There’s also evidence suggesting that touching contaminated surfaces and then touching one’s mouth or nose can lead to infection, although the relative frequency of this transmission route is unclear.

Who is at increased risk of contracting variant flu?

Individuals with frequent exposure to pigs are at a higher risk of contracting variant flu. This includes:

1. Children attending agricultural fairs
2. Pig farmers
3. Swine industry workers

Person-to-Person Transmission of Variant Flu Viruses

While the primary mode of transmission is from pigs to humans, there have been documented cases of limited person-to-person spread of variant flu viruses. However, it’s crucial to understand that the vast majority of human infections with variant flu viruses do not result in further human-to-human transmission.

Each case of human infection with a swine flu virus is thoroughly investigated to ensure that these viruses are not spreading efficiently among people. These investigations also aim to limit further exposure of humans to infected animals if such animals are identified.

Symptoms and Severity of Variant Flu Infections in Humans

Variant flu infections in humans typically present with symptoms similar to seasonal flu. These symptoms may include:

• Fever
• Lethargy (tiredness)
• Lack of appetite
• Coughing
• Runny nose
• Sore throat
• Eye irritation
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

While most cases of variant flu in humans are mild, it’s important to note that severe illness requiring hospitalization and even resulting in death is possible, similar to seasonal flu.

Prevalence and Reporting of Variant Flu Infections

Variant flu infections in humans are relatively rare, with sporadic cases reported each year. Prior to 2012, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) received reports of approximately one variant flu virus infection every one to two years. However, beginning in 2012, there was a noticeable increase in the number of reported variant flu cases.

Human infections with variant flu are now reported in the CDC’s FluView, with case counts available through the Novel Influenza A Virus Infections section of FluView Interactive.

Why did reported variant flu infections increase after 2012?

The increase in detected and reported cases of variant flu infections after 2012 could be attributed to several factors:

1. Improved state-level surveillance due to pandemic preparedness efforts
2. Enhanced laboratory capacity to detect novel flu viruses
3. Increased awareness and reporting of these infections

Food Safety and Variant Flu Transmission

A common concern regarding variant flu is its potential transmission through pork consumption. Is this a valid concern?

Variant flu has not been shown to spread through the consumption of properly handled and prepared pork or other pig products. The virus does not survive the cooking process, and there is no evidence to suggest that eating pork products can lead to variant flu infections in humans.

For safe handling and preparation of pork, consumers should follow guidelines provided by food safety authorities, such as those outlined in the USDA’s fact sheet “Fresh Pork from Farm to Table.”

Public Health Implications and Surveillance

The emergence and potential spread of variant flu viruses have significant public health implications. While these viruses do not normally infect humans, their ability to do so under certain circumstances raises concerns about potential pandemic threats.

Public health agencies, including the CDC, maintain vigilant surveillance of variant flu cases. This surveillance involves:

• Monitoring and investigating reported cases
• Analyzing virus samples to detect any changes that might increase transmissibility or severity
• Collaborating with animal health agencies to monitor flu viruses in pig populations
• Developing and updating guidance for prevention and control measures

How are variant flu viruses named?

The naming convention for variant flu viruses was established to distinguish them from seasonal flu viruses and to indicate their origin. For example, if a swine flu A(H3N2) virus is found in a human, it is called an “H3N2 variant” virus, abbreviated as “H3N2v” virus. This naming convention was first announced in a January 6, 2012, Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) titled “Update: Influenza A (H3N2)v Transmission and Guidelines — Five States, 2011.”

Prevention and Control Measures

Preventing the spread of variant flu viruses requires a multi-faceted approach involving both human and animal health sectors. Key prevention strategies include:

1. Limiting human exposure to infected pigs
2. Implementing biosecurity measures in swine farming and at agricultural fairs
3. Educating those at risk about proper hygiene and protective measures
4. Monitoring and rapidly responding to detected cases

For individuals who come into contact with pigs, especially in high-risk settings, the following precautions are recommended:

• Wash hands frequently with soap and water before and after exposure to pigs
• Avoid eating or drinking in areas where pigs are present
• Avoid close contact with pigs that appear ill
• Consider wearing personal protective equipment, such as gloves and masks, when in close contact with pigs

Are there vaccines available for variant flu viruses?

Currently, seasonal flu vaccines do not provide protection against variant flu viruses. However, research is ongoing to develop vaccines that could offer cross-protection against a wider range of flu viruses, including variant strains. In the event of a significant outbreak or pandemic threat from a variant flu virus, specific vaccines could be developed and deployed.

Global Health Security and Variant Flu

The potential for variant flu viruses to cause widespread human infections underscores the importance of global health security measures. These include:

• International collaboration in surveillance and information sharing
• Capacity building for rapid detection and response in various countries
• Research into the factors that allow animal viruses to infect and spread among humans
• Development of new diagnostic tools, treatments, and vaccines

The One Health approach, which recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, is particularly relevant in addressing the challenges posed by variant flu viruses.

How does variant flu relate to pandemic preparedness?

Variant flu viruses are of particular interest in pandemic preparedness efforts because they represent a potential source of novel flu strains to which humans have little or no immunity. The 2009 H1N1 pandemic, which originated from a variant of swine flu, serves as a reminder of this potential threat.

Pandemic preparedness activities related to variant flu include:

1. Ongoing surveillance of both human and animal populations
2. Development and stockpiling of antiviral medications
3. Creation of pandemic response plans at local, national, and international levels
4. Research into universal flu vaccines that could provide broader protection

Future Directions and Research

As our understanding of variant flu viruses continues to evolve, several areas of research and development are being pursued:

• Improving diagnostic capabilities for rapid and accurate detection of variant flu infections
• Developing better surveillance tools and methods for both human and animal populations
• Investigating the genetic and molecular factors that allow these viruses to jump from animals to humans
• Exploring new antiviral treatments and vaccine technologies
• Studying the potential long-term health effects of variant flu infections in humans

What role does genomic sequencing play in variant flu surveillance?

Genomic sequencing has become an increasingly important tool in variant flu surveillance. It allows researchers to:

1. Identify and track specific viral strains
2. Detect mutations that might affect transmissibility or virulence
3. Understand the evolutionary relationships between different flu viruses
4. Inform vaccine development and update decisions

As sequencing technologies become more accessible and affordable, they are likely to play an even greater role in future variant flu monitoring and response efforts.

Conclusion and Key Takeaways

Understanding the transmission, symptoms, and public health implications of variant flu viruses is crucial for effective prevention and control. While these infections remain relatively rare in humans, their potential for causing serious illness and sparking pandemics necessitates ongoing vigilance and research.

Key points to remember include:

• Variant flu viruses primarily spread from pigs to humans through close contact
• Symptoms are similar to seasonal flu but can range from mild to severe
• People with frequent exposure to pigs are at higher risk of infection
• Proper hygiene and protective measures can help prevent transmission
• Ongoing surveillance and research are essential for pandemic preparedness

By staying informed and following recommended guidelines, individuals can help reduce the risk of variant flu infections and contribute to overall public health efforts in managing these potential threats.

Key Facts about Human Infections with Variant Viruses

Questions & Answers

This page contains information about variant virus infections, which are human infections with flu viruses that normally spread in swine (pigs).

What is swine flu?

Swine flu is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A flu viruses that regularly cause outbreaks of flu in pigs (not people). Swine flu viruses can cause high levels of illness in swine herds, but usually cause few deaths. Common signs of illness in pigs include fever, depression, coughing (barking), runny nose or eyes, sneezing, breathing problems, eye redness or inflammation, and not eating. However, infected pigs also may not show signs or only be mildly sick. Swine flu viruses may spread among pigs throughout the year, but most outbreaks happen during the late fall and winter months, similar to outbreaks of seasonal flu in people.

What is a variant flu virus?

When a flu virus that normally spreads in pigs but not people is found in a person, it is called a “variant flu virus. ” For example, if a swine flu A(h4N2) virus is found in a person, that virus will be called an “h4N2 variant” virus (abbreviated as “h4N2v” virus). This naming convention was first announced in a January 6, 2012, Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) titled Update: Influenza A (h4N2)v Transmission and Guidelines — Five States, 2011. (Reference)

How do people get infected with variant flu and who is at increased risk of getting variant flu?

Human infections with variant flu viruses most commonly happen in people with exposure to infected pigs (e.g., children near pigs at an agricultural fair, people who raise pigs, or workers in the swine industry). This is thought to happen mainly when an infected pig coughs or sneezes and droplets with flu virus in them spread through the air. If these droplets land in the nose or mouth, or are inhaled, a person can be infected. There also is some evidence that people can get infected by touching something that has virus on it and then touching their own mouth or nose. Scientists are not sure which of these ways of spreading is most common.

Can variant flu viruses spread from person to person?

Yes. There have been multiple documented cases of people becoming sick after exposure to one or more infected pigs and also cases of limited spread of variant flu viruses from person-to-person. The vast majority of human infections with variant flu viruses do not result in person-to-person spread. However, each case of human infection with a swine flu virus should be fully investigated to be sure that such viruses are not spreading in an efficient and ongoing way in people and to limit further exposure of people to infected animals if infected animals are identified.

Can people catch variant flu from eating properly handled and prepared pork?

No. Variant flu has not been shown to spread through eating properly handled and prepared pork (pig meat) or other pig products. For more information about the proper handling and preparation of pork, visit the USDA website fact sheet Fresh Pork from Farm to Table.

What signs and symptoms do people have when they are infected with variant flu viruses?

Illness from variant virus infections has been mostly mild with symptoms similar to human seasonal flu. These include fever, lethargy (tiredness), lack of appetite and coughing. Some people also have reported runny nose, sore throat, eye irritation, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Like seasonal flu, however, serious illness resulting in hospitalization and death is possible.

How common is it for people to be infected with variant flu?

Flu viruses from swine (pigs) do not normally infect people; however, sporadic variant flu infections occur among people each year. Most commonly, variant flu infections happen in people exposed to infected pigs. Past variant flu infections have occurred among children and adults exposed to infected pigs at agricultural fairs, among people who raise pigs, and among swine workers. There have been documented cases of multiple people becoming sick after exposure to one or more sick pigs. Also, instances of limited person-to-person spread of variant viruses have occurred.

Prior to 2012, CDC received reports of approximately one variant flu virus infection every one to two years, but beginning in 2012, there was a jump in the number of variant flu cases. Human infections with variant flu are reported in FluView, and case counts are available at Novel Influenza A Virus Infections (cdc.gov) in FluView Interactive.

Why did the number of reported variant flu infections increased after 2012?

The increased detection and reporting of these cases could have occurred for a number of reasons, including:

• pandemic preparedness efforts have improved state level surveillance and laboratory capacity to detect novel flu viruses in the United States;
• in 2005, novel flu virus infections were made internationally reportable; and in 2007, they were made domestically reportable; and,
• it’s also possible that there has been a true increase in the number of these cases, following exposure to infected swine.

Who is at higher risk of serious variant flu illness?

The groups of people at higher risk of developing serious variant flu complications are thought to be the same groups at higher risk for serious seasonal flu complications. These groups include: children younger than 5 years, people 65 years and older, pregnant people, and people with certain chronic health conditions (like asthma, diabetes, heart disease, weakened immune systems, and neurological or neurodevelopmental conditions).

A full list of people at higher risk of flu related complications is available at People at Higher Risk of Developing Flu-Related Complications.

CDC has issued guidance for people attending fairs where swine might be present, including additional precautions for people who are at higher risk for serious flu complications.

Why are human infections with variant viruses of concern?

Variant flu infections are caused by flu viruses that normally spread in pigs (not people), and which are different from human seasonal flu viruses. Human seasonal flu vaccines are generally not expected to protect people from variant flu. Just like human seasonal flu viruses, infections with variant flu viruses can sometimes cause severe disease, even in healthy people. This can include complications which require hospitalization and sometimes result in death.

In addition, because pigs can be infected with avian (bird), human, and swine flu viruses, they have the potential to be infected with flu viruses from different species (e.g., ducks and humans) at the same time. If this happens, it is possible for the genes of these viruses to mix through a process called reassortment. This can result in the creation of a new flu virus. This type of major change in flu A viruses is known as antigenic shift. If this new virus causes illness in people and can spread easily from person-to-person, a flu pandemic can occur. This is what happened in 2009 when a flu A h2N1 virus with genes from swine, avian and human flu viruses emerged in the spring of 2009 and caused a pandemic. It is important to note that while variant flu virus infection has resulted in mostly mild disease in people, human infection with some avian flu viruses has resulted in quite severe illness. If reassortment were to result in a new flu virus with the severity of some avian flu viruses and the ability to spread easily from person-to-person, the possibility of a flu pandemic increases.

Does getting a seasonal flu vaccine protect people against variant flu?

Seasonal flu vaccines are not formulated to protect against variant flu viruses. Seasonal flu vaccines protect against seasonal flu viruses. CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older get a seasonal flu vaccine each year. CDC also recommends that people who have contact with pigs get the seasonal flu vaccine to help prevent spreading human flu viruses to pigs.

How can human infections with variant flu viruses be diagnosed?

There is a test to diagnose variant flu A virus infection. Since the 2009 h2N1 pandemic, state health departments have the ability to test for novel (non-human) flu viruses. However, if a variant flu virus is suspected, a respiratory specimen is also sent to CDC for further testing.

What medications are available to treat variant flu infections in people?

There are four different antiviral drugs that are recommended for use in the United States for the treatment of flu: oseltamivir, peramivir, zanamivir, and baloxavir.

For information about seasonal flu, visit the CDC Seasonal Influenza (Flu) website.

For more information on human infections, visit Past Reports of Human Infections with Variant Viruses.

How did the h4N2v virus emerge and when did the largest outbreaks of h4N2v occur?

Flu A h4N2 variant viruses, also known as “h4N2v” viruses, with the matrix (M) gene from the 2009 h2N1 pandemic virus were first detected in people in July 2011. The viruses were first identified in U.S. pigs in 2010. In 2011, 12 cases of h4N2v infection were detected in the United States (Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia). The largest outbreaks of h4N2v occurred in 2012, when 309 cases of h4N2v infection across 12 states were detected. That year 16 people were hospitalized, and one died. Most cases of h4N2v infection have occurred in children.

Symptoms, Causes, Tests, and Treatments

Written by Stephanie Watson

• How Do You Catch It?
• Swine Flu Symptoms
• Are There Tests for Swine Flu?
• How Is It Treated?
• Is There a Vaccine for Swine Flu?

h2N1 flu is also known as swine flu. It’s called swine flu because in the past, the people who caught it had direct contact with pigs. That changed several years ago, when a new virus emerged that spread among people who hadn’t been near pigs.

In 2009, h2N1 was spreading fast around the world, so the World Health Organization called it a pandemic. Since then, people have continued to get sick from swine flu, but not as many.

While swine flu isn’t as scary as it seemed a few years ago, it’s still important to protect yourself from getting it. Like seasonal flu, it can cause more serious health problems for some people. The best bet is to get a flu vaccine, or flu shot, every year. Swine flu is one of the viruses included in the vaccine.

The same way as the seasonal flu. When people who have it cough or sneeze, they spray tiny drops of the virus into the air. If you come in contact with these drops, touch a surface (like a doorknob or sink) where the drops landed, or touch something an infected person has recently touched, you can catch h2N1 swine flu.

People who have it can spread it one day before they have any symptoms and as many as 7 days after they get sick. Kids can be contagious for as long as 10 days.

Despite the name, you can’t catch swine flu from eating bacon, ham, or any other pork product.

These, too, are pretty much the same as seasonal flu. They can include:

• Cough
• Fever
• Sore throat
• Stuffy or runny nose
• Body aches
• Headache
• Chills
• Fatigue

Like the regular flu, swine flu can lead to more serious problems including pneumonia, a lung infection, and other breathing problems. And it can make an illness like diabetes or asthma worse. If you have symptoms like shortness of breath, severe vomiting, pain in your belly or sides, dizziness, or confusion, call your doctor or 911 right away.

Yes. Without one it’s hard to tell whether you have swine flu or seasonal flu, because most symptoms are the same. If you have swine flu, you may be more likely to feel sick and your stomach and throw up than with regular flu. But a lab test is the only way to know. Even a rapid flu test you can get in your doctor’s office won’t tell you for sure.

To test for swine flu, your doctor runs a swab — a bigger version of the ones in your bathroom — up the inside of your nose around the back of your throat. But the test isn’t as common or widespread as those for regular flu. So the only people who really need to be tested are those in the hospital or those at high risk for life-threatening problems from swine flu, such as:

• Children under 5 years old
• People 65 or older
• Children and teens (under age 18) who are getting long-term aspirin therapy and who might be at risk for Reye’s syndrome after being infected with swine flu. Reye’s syndrome is a life-threatening illness linked to aspirin use in children.
• Pregnant women
• Adults and children with chronic lung, heart, liver, blood, nervous system, neuromuscular, or metabolic problems
• Adults and children who have weakened immune systems (including those who take medications to suppress their immune systems or who have HIV)
• People in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities

Some of the same antiviral drugs that are used to treat seasonal flu also work against h2N1 swine flu. Oseltamivir (Tamiflu), peramivir (Rapivab), and zanamivir (Relenza) seem to work best, although some kinds of swine flu don’t respond to oseltamivir.

These drugs can help you get well faster. They can also make you feel better. They work best when you take them within 48 hours of the first flu symptoms, but they can help even if you get them later on.

Antibiotics won’t do anything for you. That’s because flu is caused by a virus, not bacteria.

Over-the-counter pain remedies and cold and flu medications can help relieve aches, pains, and fever. Don’t give aspirin to children under age 18 because of the risk of Reye’s syndrome. Make sure that over-the-counter cold medications do not have aspirin before giving them to children.

The same flu vaccine that protects against seasonal flu also protects against the h2N1 swine flu strain. You can get it as a shot or as a nasal spray. Either way, it “teaches” your immune system to attack the real virus.

Besides a flu shot, there are other things you can do to stay healthy:

• Wash your hands throughout the day with soap and water. Sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice to make sure you’ve washed long enough. Or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth.
• Avoid people who are sick.

Top Picks

Influenza A(h2N1)

HOW TO PROTECT AGAINST FLU A(h2N1)?

Influenza A (h2N1) virus is easily transmitted from person to person and causes respiratory diseases of varying severity. The symptoms of the disease are similar to those of a regular (seasonal) flu. The severity of the disease depends on a number of factors, including the general condition of the body and age.

Predisposed to the disease: the elderly, young children, pregnant women and people suffering from chronic diseases (asthma, diabetes, cardiovascular disease), and those with weakened immune systems.

RULE 1: WASH

Wash your hands often with soap and water.

Clean and disinfect surfaces using household detergents.

Hand hygiene is an important measure to prevent the spread of influenza. Washing with soap removes and destroys germs. If it is not possible to wash your hands with soap and water, use alcohol-containing or disinfectant wipes.

Cleaning and regular disinfection of surfaces (tables, doorknobs, chairs, etc.) removes and destroys the virus.

RULE 2: KEEP DISTANCE AND etiquette

Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Maintain a distance of at least 1 meter from patients.

Avoid travel and crowded places.

Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.

Avoid touching eyes, nose or mouth with hands. Influenza virus spreads in these ways.

Do not spit in public places.

Wear a mask or other available protective equipment to reduce the risk of illness.

The virus is easily transmitted from a sick person to a healthy person by airborne droplets (when sneezing, coughing), so it is necessary to maintain a distance of at least 1 meter from patients. When coughing, sneezing, cover your mouth and nose with disposable tissues, which should be thrown away after use. By avoiding unnecessary visits to crowded places, we reduce the risk of disease.

RULE 3: LIVE A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

A healthy lifestyle increases the body’s resistance to infection. Follow a healthy regimen, including proper sleep, consumption of foods rich in proteins, vitamins and minerals, physical activity.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF FLU A (h2N1)?

The most common symptoms of influenza A(H1N1)2009:

• fever (97%),

• cough (94%),

• runny nose (59%),

• sore throat (50 %),

• headache (47%),

• rapid breathing (41%),

• muscle pain (35%),

• conjunctivitis (9%).

In some cases, symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders (which are not characteristic of seasonal influenza) were observed: nausea, vomiting (18%), diarrhea (12%).

Complications of influenza A(H1N1)2009:

A characteristic feature of influenza A(H1N1)2009 is the early onset of complications. If with seasonal flu complications usually occur on the 5th-7th day and later, then with influenza A (H1N1) 2009 complications can develop already on the 2nd-3rd day of illness.

The leading complication is primary viral pneumonia. Viral pneumonia worsens rapidly, and many patients develop respiratory failure within 24 hours, requiring immediate respiratory support with mechanical ventilation.

Promptly started treatment helps to alleviate the severity of the disease.

WHAT TO DO WHEN I HAVE FLU?

Stay at home and seek immediate medical attention.

Follow your doctor’s orders, stay in bed and drink plenty of fluids.

Avoid crowded places. Wear a hygienic mask to reduce the risk of spreading infection.

Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you sneeze or cough. Wash your hands with soap as often as possible.

WHAT TO DO IF SOMEONE IN THE FAMILY IS ILL WITH FLU?

Give the patient a separate room in the house. If this is not possible, keep a distance of at least 1 meter from the patient.

Minimize contact between sick people and loved ones, especially children, the elderly and people with chronic illnesses.

Ventilate the room frequently.

Maintain cleanliness by washing and disinfecting surfaces as often as possible with household detergents.

Wash your hands frequently with soap.

When caring for a sick person, cover your mouth and nose with a mask or other protective equipment (kerchief, scarf, etc.).

Only one member of the family should care for the sick person.

h2N1 influenza (swine flu) and you

h2N1 influenza (swine flu) and you 1

What is H 1 N 1 (swine flu)?

h2N1 (commonly known as “swine flu”) is a new influenza virus that causes illness in humans. This new virus was first detected in humans in the United States in April 2009. Other countries, including Mexico and Canada, are also reporting human cases of the new virus. This virus spreads from one person to another, probably in much the same way as regular seasonal flu.

Why is the new virus H 1 N 1 sometimes called “swine flu”?

This virus was originally called “swine flu” because it was found in laboratory studies that many of the causative agents of this new virus

were very similar to influenza viruses commonly seen in pigs in North America. However, further studies have shown that the detected virus differs in many ways from that which is spreading among North American pigs. It contains two genes from influenza viruses commonly found in pigs in Europe and Asia, as well as bird genes. Scientists call this virus the “quadruple reassortant.” 9in humans 003

Are there any cases of human infection with the virus H 1 N USA?

Yes. The first confirmed cases of human infection with the h2N1 influenza virus in the United States were in Southern California and near Guadalupe County, Texas. Since then, the virus has spread rapidly, with infections being reported from a growing number of states. The updated number of cases of confirmed h2N1 influenza infections in the United States is continuously reported on the Internet at http://www.cdc.gov/h2n1flu/investigation.htm . The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is working with local and state health agencies to investigate the situation.

Is this new virus infectious?

CDC has determined that the new h2N1 virus is contagious and spreads from one person to another. However, at the moment there is no information on how easily this virus spreads between people.

What are the main signs and symptoms of this virus in humans?

The symptoms of the new h2N1 influenza virus are similar to those of the seasonal flu. These include high fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, and feeling tired.

Many of the infected patients also complained of diarrhea and vomiting. In addition, as with seasonal influenza, serious and even fatal cases have been recorded as a result of the disease caused by this virus.

How serious is the disease associated with the new influenza virus 1?

It is currently unknown how dangerous this new h2N1 influenza virus will become to the general population. During seasonal flu, there are certain populations that are at greater risk for serious complications . These include people aged 65 and over, children under five, pregnant women, and people of all ages with certain chronic conditions. Initial data indicate that pregnancy and other pre-existing chronic conditions such as asthma and diabetes, which increase the risk of influenza-related complications, are also associated with an increased risk of complications from infection with this new h2N1 influenza virus.

The only thing that appears to be different from seasonal influenza is that adults over 64 years of age in this outbreak still do not appear to be at increased risk of complications associated with the new influenza virus h2N1. The CDC is also conducting laboratory tests to determine if any people have natural immunity to this virus based on their age. Early reports indicate that children do not and few adults under 60 have antibodies to the novel h2N1 influenza virus; however, about a third of adults over 60 may have antibodies against this virus. It is not known how much protection against the new influenza virus type h2N1 can (if at all) provide any of the available antibodies.

What is the severity and incidence of the new influenza H 1 N 1 compared to seasonal influenza?

The CDC is still investigating the severity of illness caused by the new h2N1 influenza virus. There is currently insufficient information to predict how severe this novel h2N1 influenza virus outbreak will be in terms of morbidity and mortality, or how it will compare to seasonal influenza.

In the case of seasonal influenza, we know that the seasons vary in time, length and severity. Seasonal influenza can cause mild to severe illness, sometimes leading to death. Each year in the United States, on average, 36,000 people die from flu-related complications and more than 200,000 people are hospitalized for flu-related causes. Among those hospitalized, 20,000 are children under the age of 5. More than 90% of deaths and about 60% of hospitalizations occur in people over 65 years of age.

To date, the largest number of confirmed and probable cases of novel h2N1 influenza virus are among people aged 5 to 24 years. Currently, there are no deaths and only a few cases in people over 64 years of age, which is unusual when compared with seasonal flu. However, pregnancy and other previously established chronic illnesses with a high risk of complications from seasonal influenza appear to be associated with an increased risk of complications from this new h2N1 influenza virus.

How is the new virus transmitted H 1 N 1?

The transmission of the new h2N1 virus is believed to be identical to that of seasonal influenza. Influenza viruses are mainly transmitted from one person to another during coughs or sneezes of sick people. Some people can get sick by touching objects that contain flu viruses and then touching their own mouth or nose.

How long can an infected person transmit the virus to other people?

The CDC currently considers this virus to have the same spreading properties as seasonal flu viruses. Studies of seasonal influenza have shown that a person can be contagious from 1 day before symptoms appear to 7 days after onset. Children, especially younger children, may be potential carriers of the virus for a longer period of time. CDC staff are studying the virus and its characteristics for more information about it, which will be provided as soon as possible.

Ways not believed to be transmitted new influenza virus H 1 N 1

Can I get this new virus H 1 N 1 if I eat or cook pork in ?

No. h2N1 viruses are not foodborne. Infection with the new HIN1 virus through pork or pork products is not possible. Properly processed and cooked pork products are completely safe to consume.

Is there a risk of disease through drinking water?

Tap water that has been treated with accepted disinfection methods does not pose a particular risk of transmitting influenza viruses. Current standards for the treatment of drinking water provide a high degree of protection against viruses. The susceptibility of the new h2N1 influenza virus to accepted drinking water treatment processes has not been studied. However, recent studies have shown that the level of free chlorine commonly used to purify drinking water is sufficient to inactivate the highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza. It is likely that other influenza viruses, such as the new h2N1, will also be inactivated by chlorine treatment. To date, there have been no documented cases of influenza caused by contaminated drinking water.

Can a new flu virus H 1 N 1 spread through water in swimming pools, spas, water parks, fountains and other 90 003 treated water sources used for bathing and swimming?

Influenza viruses infect the human upper respiratory tract. There are no documented cases of influenza virus infection associated with water use. Bathing and swimming water that has been treated using CDC-recommended disinfection levels is unlikely to transmit influenza viruses. The susceptibility of the h2N1 influenza virus to chlorine and other disinfectants used in swimming pools, spas, water parks, fountains, and other treated water sources used for bathing and swimming has not been studied. However, recent studies have shown that CDC-recommended levels of free chlorine (1-3 parts per million [ppm or mg/L] for swimming pools and 2-5 ppm for spas) are sufficient to disinfect avian virus. influenza A (H5N1). It is likely that other influenza viruses, such as the new h2N1, will also be disinfected with chlorine.

Can influenza virus H 1 N 1 be transmitted in watery areas, 9000 3 used for bathing and swimming, outside of it?

Yes, pools of water used for bathing and swimming are no different from other public places. The modes of transmission of the new h2N1 virus are believed to be identical to those of the seasonal flu. Influenza viruses are mainly transmitted from one person to another during coughs or sneezes of sick people. Some people can get sick by first touching an object that contains flu viruses and then touching their own mouth or nose.

Prevention and treatment

How can I protect myself from infection?

There is currently no vaccine to protect against infection with the novel h2N1 virus. To prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses such as the flu, normal daily hygiene practices should be followed.

To protect your health, use the following measures:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw away the used tissue in the trash.

• Wash your hands thoroughly and often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are also effective.

• Do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth. The infection is transmitted in this way.

• Avoid close contact with sick people.

• If you are ill, stay home for 7 days after you develop symptoms or until you have symptoms within 24 hours, whichever is longer. This is necessary to prevent infecting others and further spread of the virus.

Other important things you can do include:

• Follow public health advice regarding school closures, social distancing, and other flu isolation measures.

• Be prepared to stay at home for about a week if you become ill; A supply of over-the-counter medications, alcohol-based hand rubs, tissues, and other related items may come in handy to help eliminate the need to go out in public while you are sick and carrying an infection.

What is the best way to protect yourself from spreading the virus through coughing or sneezing?

If you are sick, limit contact with other people as much as possible. If you become ill, stay home for 7 days after symptoms develop or until symptoms develop within 24 hours, whichever is longer. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw used tissues in the trash can. Afterward, wash your hands after every bout of coughing or sneezing.

What is the best way to wash your hands to avoid getting the flu?

Washing your hands frequently will protect you from germs. Use soap or an alcohol-based hand rub to wash your hands. The CDC recommends washing your hands — with soap and warm water — for at least 15 to 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, disposable wipes soaked in alcohol-based hand rub or disinfectant gels can be used. They can be found in most supermarkets and pharmacies. When using the gel, rub it into your hands until completely dry. The gel does not require water to act; the alcohol it contains will kill the germs on your hands.

What should I do if I get sick?

If you live in areas where cases of novel h2N1 flu have been identified and you have flu-like symptoms, including fever, body aches, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, stay home and avoid contact with other people. Staying at home means not leaving it, except when you need to seek medical help. This means avoiding normal activities including work, school, travel, shopping, social events and public gatherings.

If you are seriously ill or especially susceptible to complications from the flu, contact your healthcare provider or seek medical attention. The health facility will determine whether it is necessary to test for the flu or start treatment right away. If you get sick and have any of the following signs that your condition is getting worse, call your doctor right away.

In children among similar signs that require urgent care, may include:

• Rapid or labored breathing

• Gray or bluish skin

• Not drinking enough water

9000 6 • Severe or persistent vomiting

• Non-awakening or no response

• So excited that the child resists being picked up

• Some relief from influenza symptoms, which then returned, accompanied by fever and increased cough

In adults, signs that require immediate medical attention may include the following:

Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath Pain or tightness in chest or abdomen

Sudden dizziness

• Confusion

• Severe or persistent vomiting

• Some relief from influenza symptoms, which then returned, accompanied by fever and increased cough

Are there medicines to treat the new flu?

Yes. The CDC recommends the use of oseltamivir or zanamivir to treat and/or prevent infection with the novel h2N1 influenza virus. Antiviral drugs are prescription drugs (tablets, solutions, or inhalers) that are designed to treat the flu and stop viruses from multiplying in your body. If you get sick, antiviral medicines can slow down the progression of the disease and help you feel better sooner. In addition, they can prevent serious complications caused by the flu. During the current epidemic, the use of anti-influenza antiviral drugs for the treatment of serious influenza is a priority.

What is the CDC recommendation for swine flu parties?

“Swine flu parties” are gatherings where people come into close contact with someone who has the novel h2N1 flu in order to become infected with the virus. The purpose of these parties is to be infected with the virus that has caused many people mild illness, in the hope of acquiring natural immunity to the new h2N1 influenza virus that may continue to circulate and cause more severe illness.

The CDC does not recommend “swine flu parties” as a way to protect against new h2N1 influenza in the future. forms and even lead to death. It is impossible to predict with certainty what the outcome will be in the case of a person, or, just as importantly, in the case of those to whom a person who deliberately infects himself can transmit the virus.

The CDC recommends that people with the new h2N1 flu virus avoid contact with others as much as possible. They should stay home for 7 days after symptoms develop or until symptoms develop within 24 hours, whichever is longer.

Infection and cleaning

x (e.g. books and doorknobs)?

Studies have shown that influenza virus

is able to survive on surrounding objects with the possibility of infecting a person within 2-8 hours from the moment it hits the surface.

What kills the influenza virus?

Influenza virus is destroyed by high temperature (75-100°C). In addition, some chemical germicides, including chlorine, hydrogen peroxide, detergents (soaps), iodophors (iodine-based antiseptics), and alcohol solutions, are effective against human influenza viruses when used at the appropriate concentration for a sufficient period of time. For example, alcohol-based hand rubs and gels can be used to clean hands. Gels must be rubbed into the hands until completely dry.

Which surfaces are more likely to be contaminated?

Germs can be spread when a person touches germ-bearing objects and then touches their eyes, nose, or mouth. Droplets of liquid during an infected person’s sneeze or cough are transmitted through the air. Germs can be transmitted when a person touches another person’s respiratory droplets on a surface, such as a table, and then touches their own eyes, mouth, or nose without washing their hands.

How should household waste be handled to prevent the spread of the influenza virus?

To help prevent the spread of the flu virus, it is recommended that you throw away tissues and other disposable items used by an infected person in the trash. In addition, after touching tissues and similar debris, wash your hands with soap and water.

What to wash in the house for prevent the spread of the flu virus?

To prevent the spread of the influenza virus, it is important to keep surfaces (especially bedside tables, bathrooms, kitchens, and children’s toys) clean by wiping them down with household disinfectants according to label directions.

How should linen, cutlery and crockery used by people infected with the influenza virus be handled?

It is not necessary to wash linen and cutlery and dishes belonging to the patient separately, but it is important to remember that these items should not be used by others without careful pretreatment. Linens (such as sheets and towels) should be washed using regular laundry soap and dried in a hot dryer. Do not carry dirty linen “in an armful” to the place of washing in order to prevent your own infection. After carrying dirty laundry, wash your hands with soap and water or wipe them with an alcohol-based hand rub.

Cutlery should be washed either in the dishwasher or with soap and water.

Response and research

What is CDC doing in response to the influenza outbreak?

The purpose of this institution is to reduce the spread and severity of the disease, and to provide information to help physicians, health care administrators and the public in informing them about the issues raised by the new virus. The CDC is working with state and local health departments to strengthen surveillance in the United States and collect and analyze data to assess the impact of the virus and identify groups at higher risk of developing complications. In addition to this, CDC continues to release new and updated interim guidance for healthcare professionals, health professionals and the public for the prevention and treatment of this new virus.

To expand national and international laboratory capacity to detect novel h2N1 influenza, CDC has developed and distributed new diagnostic kits and reagents to more than 350 laboratories, including laboratories in 131 countries. The Center’s Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) division continues to ship antiviral drugs, personal protective equipment, and respiratory protection to all 50 states and other US territories to assist in the outbreak response.

The United States government is also actively taking early steps in the production of the new h2N1 influenza vaccine by working closely with manufacturers. The CDC has isolated a new h2N1 type virus, created a candidate vaccine virus that can be used to produce a vaccine, and made the virus available to manufacturers, who can therefore start scaling up vaccine production if necessary.

What epidemiological studies are being carried out in response to the current influenza outbreak?

The CDC is working closely with local and state officials in areas where there have been identified cases of novel h2N1 influenza infection in the public. The CDC has sent staff to several states to help conduct research on the impact of the new h2N1 influenza virus, including assessing the severity of the illness, how easily the virus spreads, and the amount of time people can be contagious. In states where EpiAid teams have been deployed, various epidemiological measures are in place or planned, including:

• Continuous surveillance in those counties where human cases have been identified;

• Examination of health care workers who have been in contact with sick patients to determine if they are infected;

• Examining family members and others who have been in contact with sick patients to see if they are infected;

• A study to find out how long a person infected with a virus sheds the virus into the environment.

Who is responsible for distributing medicines from national strategic stockpiles (SNZ) after delivery?

Local health authorities have full control over the distribution of CHS medicines after they are delivered to a city, state, or region.