Pandemic H1N1/09 virus

Pandemic H1N1/09 virus is a novel influenza A virus subtype that was first identified in April 2009. This strain of the virus, often referred to as "swine flu", resulted in the 2009 flu pandemic. The virus is a unique combination of influenza virus genes never previously identified in either animals or people.

Origin

The Pandemic H1N1/09 virus is believed to have resulted from a reassortment of swine influenza, avian influenza, and human influenza viruses, possibly in pigs. The virus was first identified in two children in the United States in April 2009.

Symptoms

The symptoms of the Pandemic H1N1/09 virus are similar to those of the seasonal flu and can include fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue. Some people may also have vomiting and diarrhea.

Transmission

The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person through the coughing or sneezing of infected people. It can also be contracted by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching the mouth or nose.

Prevention and Treatment

Prevention measures include frequent hand washing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and staying home when sick. Vaccines for the Pandemic H1N1/09 virus were made available in October 2009. Antiviral drugs can also be used to treat the illness.

Impact

The Pandemic H1N1/09 virus caused the first global pandemic in more than 40 years. It resulted in an estimated 151,700 to 575,400 deaths worldwide during the first year the virus circulated.