H1N1 (Influenza A virus subtype H1N1) is a novel strain of influenza that was first identified in April 2009. It is sometimes called “swine flu” because this new strain was similar to swine influenza viruses. However, it is different enough from typical swine flu viruses that it can cause unique symptoms and may require special treatment.
Most people who have been infected with H1N1 report only mild illness, and recover without requiring hospitalization or antiviral medications. However, some people are at increased risk for more severe illness from H1N1, including children younger than 5 years old, pregnant women, adults 65 years of age and older, and people with certain chronic medical conditions like asthma, diabetes, or heart disease.
People with these underlying health conditions are more likely to develop pneumonia if they get the H1N1 virus. Pneumonia is an inflammation of the lungs that can be caused by a bacterial or viral infection. Symptoms include coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath, rapid breathing, sweating and fever. Pneumonia can range in severity from mild to life-threatening.
The best way to prevent getting sick with any type of influenza is to get vaccinated each year as soon as the vaccine becomes available in your community (usually in October). If you do become ill with influenza-like symptoms – such as fever over 100°F/38°C accompanied by coughing or sore throat – contact your healthcare provider right away so that you can receive early diagnosis and treatment if necessary.