Swine Flu (H1N1 influenza) Q&A
The Swine Influenza (Swine Flu) is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by the Type A influenza virus. Humans do not normally get swine flu, but this can happen.
Cases of Swine Flu or the H1N1 influenza in humans has been reported in the U.S. and confirmed. Recently one case was confirmed in Valencia County. Updated information can be found by clicking here or the Quick Link at the right.
The Centers for Disease Control in Atlanta (CDC) has determined that this influenza (H1N1) is contagious among humans. At this time, it is not known how easily the virus is spread between people. Considering that this virus is prevalent in pigs, there is no evidence that eating or handling pork products of any kind can spread the virus to humans.
What you can do to stay healthy
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. Alternatively, cough into the crook of your arm.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Use soap and lukewarm water lathering and rubbing your hands together for at least 15 seconds. Rinse your hands and completely dry them with a paper towel. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
- Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing by infected people.
- If you get sick, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
What should I do if I get sick
If you live in an area where the H1N1 Influenza cases have been identified and if you become ill with flu-like symptoms, which include fever, body aches, runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, you need to contact your health care provider. They will determine if testing is needed and the course of treatment. Any new cases must be reported and tracked.
If you are sick, stay home and avoid contact with others as much as possible to keep from spreading your illness. Do not go to work or school if ill. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. This may prevent those around you from getting sick. Put your used tissue in the waste basket. Cover your cough or sneeze if you do not have a tissue. Then, clean your hands. Do so every time you cough or sneeze
Influenza medications are available to treat the H1N1 Influenza in people. These medications should be started in the first 2 days of being ill to be most effective.
TThe Emergency Management Office in Valencia County has been mobilized in Phase I which consists of educating the public on how to prevent this illness from spreading. If it becomes necessary to elevate the current condition the local EMO is prepared to take whatever steps are necessary to protect the health and well being of county and city residents.
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The statements, views and opinions made at any of the above links are strictly those of the authors. These views may not necessarily represent the opinions or policies of the City of Belen, nor its agents, officers, directors, or employees.