What is Influenza A (H1N1)?
Influenza A (H1N1), previously known as Swine Flu, is a new strain of virus that can be transmitted from human to human. It can spread quickly to a large population as most people would not have developed the immunity due to lack of previous exposure to this new strain of virus.

What are the symptoms of influenza A (H1N1)?
Influenza A (H1N1) and regular seasonal flu share a similar range of symptoms.

POSSIBLE SYMPTOMS
   •  High fever (above 38°C)
   •  Chills, body aches, sore throat
   •  Cough
   •  Runny nose
   •  Headache

Patients may experience breathlessness a few days later

Can I catch the Swine Flu through food?
Currently, there is no evidence to suggest that Influenza A (H1N1) can be transmitted to human through consumption of pork or related food products that have been thoroughly cooked.

How can Influenza A (H1N1) be diagnosed?
Mucus specimen would need to be collected within the first 4 to 5 days of illness for laboratory analysis. In selected cases, testing can still be performed on the 10th day of the infection or later, especially children.

Can Influenza A (H1N1) infection be treated?
Influenza A (H1N1) infection can be treated with different antiviral medication such as oseltamivir and zanamivir.

Can I be vaccinated against Influenza A (H1N1)?
While there is vaccine to protect regular seasonal flu, there is currently no vaccine available to protect human from Influenza A (H1N1). Nonetheless, vaccine against Influenza A (H1N1) is currently in development.

Should I avoid travelling to countries with known cases of Influenza A (H1N1)?
As Influenza A (H1N1) outbreak is worldwide and may sustain over a long period, it may not be feasible for government agencies to issue specific destination travel advisory. Generally, those who are feeling unwell should refrain from travelling.

The following group of people should also review their travelling plans to affected countries and take necessary precautions as well.

   •  Pregnant women
   •  Young children
   •  Patients with medical conditions such as asthma, health disease or chronic lung disease
   •  Patients who are taking immune system suppressing medication

What precautions should I take if I’m travelling to areas with known cases of Influenza A
(H1N1)?
1. Avoid crowded areas and maintain good ventilation to reduce contact with viruses.
2. Avoid contact with person having symptoms of influenza.
3. Maintain good body resistance through a balanced diet, regular exercise and sufficient rest; as well as minimising stress
    and smoking.
4. Maintain high personal hygiene standards, for example, washing hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water. Hands should also be washed when they are in contact with mucus e.g. after sneezing.
5. Monitor temperature regularly and see a doctor immediately if you suspect you are suffering from fever or flu.

What actions should I take, if I suspect I have contracted the infection after travelling to
areas with known cases of Influenza A (H1N1)?
If you have travelled to areas with known cases of Influenza A (H1N1) and you suspect you have symptoms of the influenza, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Also inform your doctor about your symptoms and the area(s) which you have travelled to.

What precautions should I take if I’m travelling to areas with known cases of Influenza A (H1N1)?

1. Avoid crowded areas and maintain good ventilation to reduce contact with viruses.
2. Avoid contact with person having symptoms of influenza.
3. Maintain good body resistance through a balanced diet, regular exercise and sufficient rest; as well as minimising stress
    and smoking.
4. Maintain high personal hygiene standards, for example, washing hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water. Hands should also be washed when they are in contact with mucus e.g. after sneezing.
5. Monitor temperature regularly and see a doctor immediately if you suspect you are suffering from fever or flu.

What actions should I take, if I suspect I have contracted the infection after travelling to
areas with known cases of Influenza A (H1N1)?
If you have travelled to areas with known cases of Influenza A (H1N1) and you suspect you have symptoms of the influenza, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Also inform your doctor about your symptoms and the area(s) which you have travelled to.