fact Sheet Swine influenza
What is it? Swine Influenza (swine flu) is a respiratory disease that causes regular flu outbreaks in pigs. A new form of swine influenza A (H1N1) virus has been identified in humans. It is contagious and is spreading from human to human. There is concern that this new strain of swine influenza may have pandemic potential. However, at this time, it is not known how easily the virus spreads between people. Businesses need to consider preparing for an outbreak, for further information see Business
influenza virus. Scientists worldwide are working to develop a suitable human vaccine against swine influenza A (H1N1),
This swine influenza virus is suspected to be spread in the
however a vaccine is not expected to become available in
same way as seasonal flu – mainly from person to person
through coughing or sneezing. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on
it and then touching their mouth or nose.
There are everyday actions people can take to stay healthy.
Swine influenza A (H1N1) virus infections have now been confirmed in the United States, Mexico, Canada,
n Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you
Europe and New Zealand but the situation continues to
cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the rubbish after
n Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially
after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners
n Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
The symptoms of swine flu in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include fever, cough,
Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhoea and vomiting associated
n Influenza is thought to spread mainly person to person
through coughing or sneezing of infected people.
n If you get sick, stay home from work or school and limit
Previously, severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure)
contact with others to avoid infecting them.
and deaths have been reported with swine flu infection in people. Like seasonal flu, swine flu may cause a worsening
of underlying chronic medical conditions.
If you have returned from the United States, Mexico or
Canada within the last 7 days, and are feeling unwell with
any flu-like symptoms, such as cough, fever, headache, joint aches and pains, fatigue, nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea,
Current information suggests that antiviral drugs (including
please contact your local Public Health Unit, General
Tamiflu and Relenza) are useful against these swine
Practitioner, or go to your nearest hospital emergency
influenza viruses. These drugs are readily available through
department and tell them that you have recently returned
pharmacists and can be prescribed by GPs.
It is not expected that the Australian seasonal influenza
Department of Health and Ageing swine influenza
vaccine will provide protection against this new strain of
Swine influenza fact Sheet PaGe 1 of 1
Based on information provided by DoHA, WHO and CDC.
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