A form of the common influenza virus that affects your respiratory system, the H1N1 virus originated in pigs, giving it the name the nickname "the swine flu." In June 2009, the World Health Organization declared a global pandemic of the swine flu, meaning that the illness is widespread throughout the world.

Causes

The swine flu H1N1 virus spreads through inhaling respiratory droplets that enter the air when a person with the illness coughs, sneezes, laughs or yawns. In addition, you can catch the virus through touching a surface covered with these droplets and then touching your own eyes, nose or mouth, explains the U.S. National Library of Medicine.

Symptoms

Symptoms of the swine flu include fever, coughing, sore throat, body aches, headaches, chills, fatigue, diarrhea and vomiting.

Time Frame

Symptoms of the swine flu H1N1 virus typically begin within three to five days after exposure to the illness. The illness usually requires eight days to run its course, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Treatment

Most cases of swine flu H1N1 virus require no treatment apart from rest and drinking clear fluids, reports the U.S. National Library of Medicine. People who are over the age of 65 or under the age of 5, pregnant women and people with compromised immune systems due to illness and disease may require an antiviral drug like oseltamivir and zanamivir, which shorten the duration of the illness.

Complications

Infrequently, swine flu H1N1 virus causes pneumonia, respiratory failure and even death. Warning signs that indicate the need for emergency medical attention include severe or persistent vomiting, symptoms that improve but then return with a severe cough, confusion, chest pain and shortness of breath, cautions the U.S. National Library of Medicine.

Prevention

A vaccine is available for the swine flu, but because of short supply, is typically reserved for children, pregnant women, the elderly, healthcare workers and people with suppressed immune systems. Washing your hands frequently or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer helps prevent the swine flu, suggests the U.S. National Library of Medicine.

Source:

Mayo Clinic: Swine Flu

U.S. National Library of Medicine: H1N1 (Swine) Influenza