H1N1 flu (swine flu) continues to make headlines worldwide. This version of H1N1 flu is actually a combination of Avian Influenza, Human Influenza and Porcine Influenza. Currently there are no vaccines available because the virus is thought to be made of the H1N1 for Porcine proteins but may be H1N1 or H5N1 for Avian proteins plus H1N1 for the Human proteins. Scientists are determining these H and N proteins to develop a vaccine.

H1N1 Flu is spread like regular flu - through coughing, sneezing, shaking hands, sharing glasses or utensils, or from inanimate surfaces contaminated by a sick person. The symptoms are also the same – fever, headaches, body aches, general tiredness. Stay at home when you are sick. Doctors can treat some patients with antiviral medications (Tamiflu or Relenza) if seen in the early stages. You do not get the H1N1 flu from eating meat (pork). You can get the disease from pigs if you are an animal handler and the animals are sick.

Use the links below to learn more about H1N1 Flu, and what you can do to help prevent its spread.

H1N1 Update - Latest information on the status of H1N1 (Swine) Flu Pandemic.

Non-alcohol Foaming Hand Sanitizer Efficacy Data

Antimicrobial Foaming Handwash Efficacy Data

Foaming Hand Sanitizer Efficacy Data

Awareness Poster - Download this poster to encourage handwashing at your facility.

Minnesota Department of Health - Hand Hygiene Print Materials

University of Nebraska - Lincoln - Wash Those Hands

CDC MRSA Educational Materials

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Latest information on the status of H1N1 (Swine) Flu Pandemic.

Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) - APIC’s mission is to improve health and patient safety by reducing risks of infection and other adverse outcomes. Learn more here

World Health Organization - Global Alert and Response (GAR).