Further Information:

H1N1 Influenza 09 (Human Swine Influenza)

Taken from the Australian Government - Department of Health and Ageing Website

H1N1 Influenza 09 (Human Swine Influenza) is a highly contagious acute respiratory disease of pigs which is caused by one of several H1N1 Influenza 09 (Human Swine Influenza) A viruses. The strain of H1N1 Influenza 09 (Human Swine Influenza) causing concern around the world is a mutated form of this virus called Influenzavirus A (H1N1) or human swine influenza (human swine influenza). H1N1 Influenza 09 (Human Swine Influenza) is dangerous because it can be spread from human to human. It can be passed on by people who are carrying the virus but show no outward signs of illness.

Am I at risk from H1N1 Influenza 09 (Human Swine Influenza)?

Anyone who has an acute febrile respiratory illness (fever of 38 degrees Celsius and one of nasal congestion, a runny nose, sore throat or cough) should seek medical advice by phoning a general practitioner, hospital or the H1N1 Influenza 09 (Human Swine Influenza) Hotline (180 2007). This is particularly important for anyone who has returned from Mexico, USA or Canada since March this year and who has influenza-like symptoms. While you may not have H1N1 Influenza 09 (Human Swine Influenza), it is best to seek advice so that you can be given appropriate treatment should it be necessary and so that you can reduce the risk of spreading the disease to others.

Although so far there is no evidence that the current human cases of the disease are associated with ongoing influenza outbreaks in pigs, it is best to minimise contact with sick pigs and report illness in these animals to the appropriate animal health authorities. Most people who become infected from pigs do so because of prolonged, close contact. Good hygiene practices are therefore essential, particularly when slaughtering and during post-slaughter handling.

How do I protect myself?

• Australia has well-tested plans to contain and eradicate the disease. However, following these steps will minimise your risk:
• Avoid close contact with people who appear unwell and who have a fever and a cough.
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
• Follow good health habits including getting adequate sleep, eating nutritious food and keeping physically active.

What should I do if I think I have H1N1 Influenza 09 (Human Swine Influenza)?

If you feel unwell, have high fever or chills, coughing or sneezing, fatigue, headache, body aches and/or a sore throat:

• Stay at home and keep away from work, school, public transport or crowds as much as possible.
• Wear a surgical mask or other face covering if you do have to be in contact with other people.
• Rest and take plenty of fluids.
• Cover your mouth and nose with disposable tissues (or your sleeve) when coughing and sneezing and dispose of the used tissues properly.
• Wash your hands with soap and water frequently and thoroughly, especially after coughing or sneezing.
• Inform family and friends about your illness and seek help for household chores such as shopping that require contact with other people.

If you need medical attention:

• Contact your general practitioner by phone before travelling to see them and report your symptoms. Explain why you think you have H1N1 Influenza 09 (Human Swine Influenza) (for example, if you have recently travelled to a country where there is an outbreak in humans). Follow the advice given to you for care.
• If it is not possible to contact your general practitioner in advance, tell the receptionist you think you might have H1N1 Influenza 09 (Human Swine Influenza) immediately upon arrival at the healthcare facility.
• Take care to cover your nose and mouth during travel. If possible wear a surgical mask or other face covering during travel as an added precaution.

If there is an ill person at home:

• Try to keep the ill person in a separate section of the house. If this is not possible, keep the person at least one metre away from others.
• Cover your mouth and nose when caring for the ill person. Masks can be bought from your local pharmacy or made using readily available materials as long as they are disposed of or cleaned properly.
• Wash your hands with soap and water thoroughly after all contact with the ill person.
• Try to improve the air flow in the area where the ill person stays. Use doors and windows to take advantage of breezes.
• Keep the environment clean with readily available household cleaning agents and use disposable cloths.