The A H1N1 Virus: Frequently Asked Questions

What is the A (H1N1) influenza?

It is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A strains of the influenza virus. It regularly causes high flu outbreaks in pigs but with low death rates. There are four main sub-types of the virus, but the most recent isolated influenza viruses from pigs have been H1N1 viruses.

How does it spread?

Influenza A (H1N1) viruses do not typically infect humans though they do occur through close proximity or contact with infected pigs or contaminated areas. Cases of human-to-human spread have been documented.

Do I have H1N1 flu?

The symptoms of H1N1 flu are broadly the same as those of ordinary seasonal flu. They will include a high temperature and at least TWO of the following symptoms: widespread muscle and joint aches, cough, headache, blocked or runny nose, sore throat, vomiting, watery diarrhoea.
I have the symptoms, what should I do? Stay at home and call your GP, who will be able to provide a diagnosis over the phone, and will most probably advise you to go to the hospital for a confirmation test.

How long is someone with the A (H1N1) flu considered contagious?

People with the A (H1N1) influenza virus infection should be considered potentially contagious as long as they are symptomatic; possibly for up to seven days following the onset of the illness. Children, especially younger children, might potentially be contagious for longer periods.
What should I do if my child suffers fever or cold? Parents should be vigilant, especially with the youngest children. If your child has a temperature and is visibly showing two or more of the symptoms of H1N1 flu described above (which may include persistent crying) or they are refusing food, call your GP to discuss the most appropriate course of action.

How can I best protect myself from H1N1 flu?

The virus is contained in droplets that are spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes. You can reduce the risk of catching or spreading germs by; always covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, throwing away the tissue straight away and maintaining good basic hygiene, for example washing hands thoroughly with soap and warm water. All suspected cases of H1N1 flu will have been asked to self-isolate at home and restrict their contact with people.

What should I do if I am pregnant?

Pregnant women are more susceptible to all infections because their immune system is suppressed slightly in pregnancy. There is evidence that the infection is likely to be longer lasting and more severe. You can reduce your risk of infection by avoiding unnecessary travel and avoiding crowds where possible. Pregnant women should also follow the general hygiene advice. If a family member or other close contact has H1N1 flu, your doctor may prescribe you antiviral medication as a preventive measure. If you are exhibiting signs of H1N1 flu, call your doctor for an assessment immediately. Unless you have H1N1 flu symptoms, carry on attending your antenatal appointments so you can monitor the progress of your pregnancy.

What if I am breast feeding?

Women who are breast feeding should continue to do so while receiving antiviral treatment. If a mother is ill, she should continue breast feeding and increase feeding frequency. If she becomes too ill to feed, then expressing milk may still be possible. Antiviral drugs are excreted into breast milk in very small (insignificant) amounts.

What can I do if I am going on holiday?

Individuals who exhibit symptoms are advised not to travel until they are no longer infectious. If you experience flu-like symptoms during a stay in a country affected by H1N1 flu, contact a health professional and tell them your symptoms. If you become ill on your flight home, alert the cabin crew to your symptoms. There are procedures in place for dealing with passengers who become unwell of flights and the airline will advice port health officials on the ground that a passenger requires a health assessment and may need treatment.

What precautions are in place in Malaysia?

• The Health Ministry’s operations room in Putrajaya has started a 24-hour monitoring of the situation. The public can call 03-8881 0200/300 for enquiries.



• Those returning from Latin American countries and found to have flu-like symptoms will be quarantined.



• Health Ministry officials are conducting health screenings on passengers arriving from the United States.



• Thermal scanners will be placed at international airports to speed up the screening process for A (H1N1) flu.



• Public and private medical practitioners have been instructed to report to the district health office any patient with influenza-like illnesses or severe pneumonia symptoms and who had travelled to the affected countries after April 17.
  

I'm concern because few students have been diagnosed positive with H1N1 and for few days I've been experiencing occasional high temp and muscle aches. We've been provided with mask and the whole school are ordered to put on mask at all time. I guess hand sanitizer memang macam goreng pisang panas la sekarang ni as we're also ordered to wash and sanitized our hand and handshaking is prohibited for at least 7 days. Adam also is coughing since yesterday until today. I'm going to take a half day off today to take him to the clinic. Although I hope it's just a seasonal cough, still can't help myself from feeling worry.Dah le daddynye takde di rumah pula and out of reach until tomorrow late morning.