Risk of H1N1 Flu Outbreak Associated with Travel to Affected Areas Published May 5, 2009 By Center for Disease Control Health Advisory 6 Medical Group MacDill AFB, Fla. -- Public health officials within the United States and throughout the world are investigating outbreaks of the H1N1 Flu, previously known as the Swine Flu. The H1N1 flu is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by a type A influenza virus that regularly causes outbreaks of influenza among pigs. H1N1 flu viruses do not normally infect humans; however, human infections with H1N1 flu do occur. Public health officials have determined that this strain of H1N1 flu virus spreads from human to human and can cause illness. The outbreak is ongoing and additional cases are expected. For more information concerning H1N1 flu infection, please see the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website: http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/. For specific information on travel precautions and an update on the affected areas, please visit: www.cdc.gov/travel. The symptoms of H1N1 flu in people are similar to the symptoms of seasonal flu in humans and may include: · Fever (greater than 100°F or 37.8°C) · Sore throat · Cough · Stuffy nose · Chills · Headache and body aches · Fatigue Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with H1N1 flu. Severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and deaths have been reported with H1N1 flu infection in people. Like seasonal flu, H1N1 flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions. People entering the United States who are experiencing symptoms consistent with H1N1 flu and have traveled to an affected area (see http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/investigation.htm for affected areas), or have been exposed to someone possibly infected with H1N1 flu , during the last 7 days should report their illnesses to their health care provider immediately and inform them of their recent travel. People traveling from the United States to affected areas should be aware of the risk of illness with H1N1 flu and take precautions. To prevent the spread of H1N1 flu: · Avoid contact with ill persons. · When you cough or sneeze, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or your sleeve (if you do not have a tissue). Throw used tissues in a trash can. · After you cough or sneeze, wash your hands with soap and water, or use an · alcohol-based hand gel. If you think you are ill with flu, avoid close contact with others as much as possible. Stay at home or in your hotel room. Seek medical care if you are severely ill (such as having trouble breathing). There are antiviral medications for prevention and treatment of H1N1 flu that a doctor can prescribe. Do not go to work, school, or travel while ill.