H1N1

• Swine flu / H1N1 is caused by Influenza A virus.
• It causes epidemics and pandemics mainly during winter since 2009 when this strain was first discovered.
• Reassortment of Influenza virus occurs leading to the origination of new strains.
• Uncomplicated Influenza : Mild upper respiratory tract illness and diarrhea.
• Complicated Influenza : Occurs in high risk groups manifesting as secondary bacterial pneumonia, dehydration, CNS involvement and multi organ failure.
• Diagnosis : Throat/nasopharyngeal/nasal swabs for viral detection by RT-PCR.

Note : The virus can survive on hard surfaces (steel, wood, plastics) for up to 48 hours, porous surfaces for up to 12 hours, on hands and skin for few minutes.

• Hand hygiene!!!
• Standard precautions (Mask)
• Vaccination for high risk groups
• Cover your cough
• Proper disposal of infectious waste

Clinical categorization of H1N1

Vaccination for H1N1