Influenza A H1N1

Influenza A virus subtype H1N1, also known as A(H1N1), is a subtype of infleunzavirus and the most common cause of infleunza in humans.
"Swine flu" is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses that cause regular outbreaks in pigs. People do not normally get swine flu, but human infections can and do happen. Swine flu viruses have been reported to spread from person-to-person, but in the past, this transmission was limited and not sustained beyond three people.
This virus is contagious and is spreading from human to human.
Infected people may be able to infect others beginning one day before symptoms develop and up to 7 or more days after becoming sick. That means that you may be able to pass on the flu to someone else before you know you are sick, as well as while you are sick.

In order to avoid influenza:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. If you do not have a tissue, cough or sneeze into the inside of your elbow or sleeve, not your hands.
  
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
  
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
  
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
  
• If you get sick with influenza, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.