Overview of INFLUENZA A (H1N1)

Influenza A (H1N1) is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by a virus that is easily spread from person-to-person.

HOW DO PEOPLE GET INFLUENZA A (H1N1)?
A person can get influenza A (H1N1) by:

• Breathing in the virus when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
• Contact with objects that have been recently touched by an infected person, such as a door knob or a telephone.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF INFLUENZA A (HIN1)?

• Fever
• Headache
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny and stuffy nose
• Extreme fatigue
• Muscle aches
• Nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea (these symptoms may also occur, but are more common in children).

CAN INFLUENZA A (H1N1) BE PREVENTED?
To prevent the spread of H1N1:

• Wash hands regularly with soap and water.
• Use paper towel (tissue) to cover mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing.
• Dispose of used tissue in the garbage IMMEDIATELY.
• Avoid close contact with persons exhibiting flu-like symptoms, such as handshaking, hugging or kissing.
• If you are sick, stay home until you are well. If you have severe flu-like symptoms, contact your doctor IMMEDIATELY.

If you have traveled to or come into contact with someone from affected countries such as Mexico, Canada, United Kingdom or the United States, and have flu-like symptoms, contact your doctor or nearest health center immediately.