H1N1

H1N1 is a subtype of Influenza A virus, known informally as "swine flu". This strain of the virus was responsible for the 2009 flu pandemic, the second of the two pandemics involving H1N1 influenza virus (the first of them being the 1918 flu pandemic), albeit a new strain.

Overview

H1N1 is a virus that originated in pigs, but is now a human disease with symptoms similar to those of the common flu. It is named for the two types of proteins on the surface of the virus: hemagglutinin 1 and neuraminidase 1.

Symptoms

The symptoms of H1N1 are similar to those of the common flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue. In some cases, severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and death have occurred.

Prevention

The best way to prevent H1N1 is through vaccination. The H1N1 vaccine is usually included in the annual flu vaccine. Other preventive measures include washing hands regularly with soap and water, avoiding close contact with people who are sick, and staying home when you are sick to prevent the spread of the disease.

Treatment

Treatment for H1N1 includes antiviral drugs, which work by preventing the virus from reproducing in the body. These drugs are most effective when taken within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms.

See Also

• Influenza A virus
• 2009 flu pandemic
• 1918 flu pandemic
• Common flu
• H1N1 vaccine

H1N1 Resources
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