What is H1N1 Influenza (swine flu)

H1N1 influenza is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses that cause regular outbreaks in pigs. People do not normally get H1N1 influenza, but human infections can and do happen. H1N1 influenza viruses have been reported to spread from person-to- person.

The Red Cross has taken on the role of working with communities across the country on flu pandemic education. For general information on seasonal flu and how to stay healthy, please download our flu checklist: Seasonal Flu Checklist (English and Spanish)

Preventing Influenza

Symptoms: The symptoms of H1N1 influenza are similar to the symptoms of seasonal flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with H1N1 influenza. If you are sick or think you have H1N1 influenza infection, please contact your healthcare provider.

Prevention: In addition to getting vaccinated for the seasonal flu and the H1N1 virus when vaccine is available, all Californians should practice the following prevention steps:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water.  Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing and throw the tissue in the trash after use.
• Stay home when you are sick and remain at home until at least 24 hours after you are free of fever.

Additional vaccine information (including vaccination centers) is located on http://www.flu.gov/. The American Red Cross also has information available on H1N1 preparedness, including what people can do to stay healthy and keep their family healthy.

Helpful web sites to bookmark relating to the pandemic flu:

Flu clinic locators

• http://www.flucliniclocator.org/
• http://www.findaflushot.com/
• http://cvs.com/flu/
• Los Angeles County Dept. of Health flu shot schedule

California Flu Shot Locator:

• H1N1
• Seasonal

State Information for Professionals

• H1N1 information for health professionals
• H1N1 information for educators/schools
• H1N1 information for employers
• H1N1 information for Local Health Departments

State of California Information for Individuals and Families:

• California H1N1 page
• H1N1 information for the public
• H1N1 information in Spanish