H1N1

Man wearing a protective mask against the H1N1 Virus

INFLUENZA (H1N1) PANDEMIC

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 and telephone.
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 The symptoms of Influenza A (H1N1)

• Fever
• Headache
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny and stuffy nose
• Extreme tiredness
• 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 kissingIf you are sick stay home until you are well. If you have severe flu-like symptoms contact your doctor IMMEDIATELY.
•  If you have travelled to or come into contact with someone from an affected country such as Mexico, Canada, UK or USA, and have flu-like symptoms, contact your doctor or nearest Health Centre immediately.