What Is Swine Flu?
It is a contagious influenza A that infects humans. It was originally associated with pigs (1930's).
The 2009 pandemic is primarily the H1N1 strain, although there are reports of genes not only from North American pigs, but also European and Asian pigs, as well as genes from human seasonal influenza and bird flu (flu.gov, CDC, August 2009). The 2009 swine flu pandemic is thus called a quadruple reassortant virus. While the origin is not irrefutably established, the first published cases were in Mexico. These viruses spread with extreme speed throughout the world, creating pandemic levels of contagion within three months. Viral transmission in this case, occurs by exposure to coughing and sneezing, or touching a contaminated surface then touching the eyes, nose, or mouth, according to the CDC. People can be contagious 24 hours before they become symptomatic. As of the fall of 2009, this virus has varied from mild to lethal, although it is not as lethal as seasonal influenza. It is also affecting different groups of people and generating additional symptoms. If you are experiencing an infection, please consult with your health care provider. Please check with the CDC for updates and discussions of what is swine flu.
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