The H1N1 flu virus, also known as “swine flu,” was first detected in humans in the U.S. in April 2009. Since then, hundreds of thousands of cases of the virus have been reported worldwide.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the virus is spread from person to person through coughing or sneezing by people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something – such as a surface or object – with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.
Most people who have contracted the virus have recovered without requiring medical treatment, the CDC said.
Symptoms of the H1N1 virus include fever, coughing, sore throat, runny nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue.
The CDC recommends workers who have symptoms of the virus stay home and not report to work for at least 24 hours after their fever is gone, expect to get medical care.
To stay healthy, the CDC recommends the following:
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread that way.
- Stay home if you get sick. CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
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