H1N1 FLU

What is H1N1 Flu?

The H1N1 flu is a contagious respiratory disease caused by a new type of A influenza virus not seen in humans before this year.

How does H1N1 Flu spread?

Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing of people with flu. Sometimes people become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their eyes, nose or mouth. Infected people may be able to infect others beginning one day before symptoms develop and up to seven or more days after becoming sick. You cannot get this flu from eating pork or pork products.

How can I protect myself against H1N1 Flu?

The most important precaution that you can take to avoid getting the flu is by following proper hygiene practices:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Wash your hands with soap and water frequently and especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
• Avoid close contact with sick people.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
• Regularly disinfect communal areas and any shared equipment.
• Visit the UCSF Infection Control website for infection control guidance

What are the symptoms of H1N1 Flu?

The symptoms of H1N1 flu are similar to the symptoms of regular human seasonal flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting. In rare cases, severe illness and death have been reported. Like seasonal flu, H1N1 flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.

What should I do if I feel sick?

• Stay home from work or school. Go home if you become ill at work or school.
• Limit contact with others in order to keep from infecting them.
• Follow your customary departmental/programmatic procedures for sick leave notification.
• Contact your personal healthcare provider for severe symptoms or if your symptoms do not resolve.