Novel Influenza A (H1N1) virus

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The Novel Influenza A (H1N1) virus is currently responsible for a major global public health emergency.  There is an immense array of information available on the virus and it's disease.  On this page, I have covered key facts in a succinct manner.  The best comprehensive information is gained from reputable science or health websites, such as those I have provided links to at the bottom of this page.  Feel free to e-mail me with any specific questions - philip@mptmbutton.com.au

Terminology

The most accurate name for this virus "Novel Influenza A (H1N1)".  This is the name used by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States.

Association with pigs

Novel Influenza A (H1N1) did originate from pigs, but it is now a human disease transmitted between humans.  The disease cannot be contracted from swine sources, including pork meat.

Incubation period

Unknown, but almost certainly from 1 to 7 days with 1 to 4 days likely.  That is why quarantine periods of 7 days are used.  There is a short period, around 1 day, during which an infected person is infectious (i.e. can transmit the virus) but are showing no signs of the disease themself.

Mode of transmission

Primarily airborne - therefore maintain a distance of at least 1 metre from infected people.  The virus can remain active on inanimate surfaces (door handles, taps, benches etc.) for a couple of hours or so.

Severity

Outside of Mexico, the disease is mild.  However, the situation could change, due to I) association (genetic recombination) with current seasonal Influenza viruses circulating in the southern hemisphere and II) general mutation with time.

How contagious it is

Highly contagious.  Easily transmitted and it is expected that most people who contract the virus will get the disease.

What you can do

If you DO have the disease, voluntarily quarantine yourself by staying at home until you are well.  This will maximise the chances that the disease will be contained as much as possible and not be spread to other people.  

If you DON'T have the disease, avoid mass gatherings and places where infected people are likely to frequent.


Keep your sick kids home from school. Visit www.cdc.gov/h1n1 for more information.   Wash your hands with soap and clean running water. Visit www.cdc.gov/h1n1 for more information.   Stay home if you have flu symptoms. Visit www.cdc.gov/h1n1 for more information. Cover your nose with a tissue when you sneeze or cough. Visit www.cdc.gov/h1n1 for more information.   

Below is a selection of websites that are excellent sources of information on the Novel Influenza A (H1N1) virus and it's disease.

 
World Health Organization (WHO) www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/
Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing www.healthemergency.gov.au
Victorian Government Department of Human Services (DHS) humanswineflu.health.vic.gov.au/