H1N1 PANDEMIC FLU UPDATE
On June 11, 2009 the World Heath Organization (WHO) increased the H1N1 Flu threat level to Phase 6 indicating a global pandemic. Phase 6 is characterized by human-to-human spread of the virus into at least two countries in one WHO region and community level outbreaks in at least one other country in a different WHO region.

The latest information in the U.S. is available from the WHO and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

WHAT IS H1N1 PANDEMIC FLU?
H1N1 Pandemic Flu is a respiratory disease caused by an influenza A virus. It primarily impacts pigs, which can also become infected by avian (bird) and human strains of influenza. If pigs are infected with multiple strains, the strains may combine to create a strain that is more easily transmitted among humans. In the 2009 outbreak, it appears viruses from two sources combined in pigs to create a new strain to which humans have not previously been exposed. Consequently, the ultimate severity of the disease is not known.

SYMPTOMS AND TRANSMISSION
Symptoms of H1N1 Pandemic Flu are typical of seasonal influenza, including fever (usually high), headache, extreme fatigue, dry cough, sore throat and chills. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting. In rare cases, the disease can progress to pneumonia and respiratory failure, leading to death.

According to the CDC and WHO, people cannot be infected by eating pork or through contact with pigs. Transmission typically occurs through direct contact with infected people or contaminated surfaces.

TREATMENT
Human seasonal influenza vaccine is not likely to protect humans from the current H1N1 influenza strain, so steps are being taken to manufacture a novel H1N1 vaccine. The CDC has indicated the antiviral drugs oseltamivir (Tamiflu TM) and zanamivir (Relenza TM) can lessen the symptoms of this virus. The CDC recommends following precautions for seasonal influenza to control spread of disease, including vigilant personal hand hygiene, use of hand sanitizers and staying home when ill. Additional infection control precautions are very important, including thorough disinfection of contaminated surfaces and proper cough etiquette.