H1N1 (Human Swine Influenza)

H1N1 Q&As

General Information about Seasonal Influenza and H1N1 (human swine influenza)
Updated November 5, 2009

What are seasonal influenza and H1N1?

Both seasonal influenza and H1N1 are acute viral illnesses of the respiratory tract. There are various strains of influenza; H1N1 is a new type.

How are seasonal influenza and H1N1 spread?

Coughs and sneezes release germs into the air where they can be breathed in by others.

Germs can also rest on hard surfaces like counters and doorknobs, where they can be picked up on hands and transferred to the lungs when someone touches their mouth and/or nose.

How can I prevent the spread of seasonal influenza and H1N1?

Getting vaccinated is the best way to prevent illness and protect yourself.
Wash your hands with soap and water, or use 60-90% alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available;
Cough and sneeze into your arm or sleeve. Tissues can be used to cover coughs and sneezes but be sure to wash your hands after throwing out the tissue;
Do not share drinking glasses, water bottles, mouth guards, cosmetics or eating utensils.

What are the symptoms of seasonal influenza and H1N1?

Seasonal influenza and H1N1 share the same set of symptoms. They are fever and/or cough, and one or more of the following:

Unusual tiredness;
Headache;
Muscle or joint aches;
Sore throat;
Vomiting and diarrhea in children less than 5 years of age.

These are common flu-like symptoms that most people will experience when they have the flu. Some people, especially those in high risk groups (for example, pregnant women), may experience more severe symptoms. For more information about severe symptoms and groups more at risk of getting severe illness, visit <link to symptoms and risk factors fact sheet>.

What do I do if I'm sick?

Most people with flu-like symptoms should stay home until they are feeling well and able to resume normal day-to-day activities. Like any illness, should your flu-like symptoms worsen, visit a flu assessment centre, doctor, nurse practitioner, family health nurse or walk-in clinic.

People experiencing more severe symptoms, including those in high risk groups, should be assessed by a health care provider and may receive early treatment. For more information on what to do if you're sick, contact HealthLink 811 or visit http://www.gov.ns.ca/hpp/publications/h1n1-risk-factors.pdf.

If I have influenza symptoms, should I be tested for H1N1?

H1N1 testing is not necessary.

What is the treatment for seasonal influenza and H1N1?

Because seasonal and H1N1 are caused by a virus, antibiotics are not effective. Antiviral medications can sometimes help lessen influenza symptoms, but they require an assessment with a health care provider.

Who will be treated?

Treatment (if any) will vary depending upon the situation. Physicians will decide about treatment on a case-by-case basis.

If I have been in contact with someone who has influenza, and am NOT feeling sick, what should I do?

Go about your daily routine as usual. If symptoms begin, follow the advice above.

Should masks be worn?

The Public Health Agency of Canada does not recommend the public wear masks to protect against seasonal influenza or H1N1. Evidence shows that masks are not effective in preventing the spread of influenza viruses. People often wear them incorrectly, or contaminate them when putting them on and taking them off, which could increase the risk of illness.

It seems decisions and information are changing all of the time � it's so confusing. How do I know what to believe?

Information is being distributed by many sources, and we recognize that can be confusing for Nova Scotians. We're working hard with our District Health Authority partners and the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) to help you understand H1N1 and give you the information you need in a timely way. Responding to a pandemic is complex and the information and science are evolving very quickly. We're making decisions based on the best information available and we will continue to adapt our strategy when necessary.

Please regularly visit www.gov.ns.ca/h1n1 to stay informed about H1N1 and Nova Scotia 's 2009-10 influenza immunization program.