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H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu)
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Lungs Breathing

H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu)

Swine flu is a contagious viral infection that can spread from human to human, with symptoms similar to the regular human flu.

Overview

Swine flu is an infection caused by a virus. It is named for a virus that pigs can get. While people do not normally get swine flu, human infections can and do happen. In 2009, a strain of swine flu called H1N1 infected many people around the world.

Symptoms

The virus is contagious and can spread from human to human. Symptoms of swine flu in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include:

  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Body aches
  • Headache
  • Chills
  • Fatigue

Treatment & Prevention

There are antiviral medicines you can take to prevent or treat swine flu. There is also a vaccine available to protect against it. You can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza by:

  • Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, and throwing the tissue in the trash after use.
  • Washing your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. You can also use alcohol-based hand cleaners.
  • Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, or mouth, as germs spread this way.
  • Trying to avoid close contact with sick people.
  • Staying home from work or school if you are sick.

Frequently Asked Questions

ntiviral drugs like oseltamivir (Tamiflu) are most effective when started within 48 hours of symptom onset. If you have been in close contact with someone who has H1N1 and are at high risk for complications, a doctor may prescribe it for prevention even before symptoms appear, but this must be initiated promptly after exposure.
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience difficulty breathing, persistent pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen, sudden dizziness, confusion, or severe vomiting. For children, watch for fast breathing, bluish lips or face, and refusal to drink fluids. These signs may indicate severe complications like pneumonia or respiratory failure.
The H1N1 strain is typically included in the annual seasonal influenza vaccine. Therefore, receiving the standard yearly flu shot provides protection against H1N1 as well. If you have not received your seasonal flu shot for the current year, getting it is the most effective way to prevent H1N1 infection.
Yes, you can contract H1N1 by touching a surface with the virus on it and then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Influenza viruses can survive on hard surfaces like doorknobs, countertops, and light switches for up to 24 to 48 hours, though they may survive longer in cooler temperatures. Frequent hand washing with soap and water or using alcohol-based sanitizers is critical to break this transmission chain.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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