H1N1 Flu Virus
- What is H1N1 flu virus?
- How can I tell if I have H1N1 or the seasonal flu?
- How does H1N1 flu virus spread?
- How long can someone with the flu infect someone else?
- Should I wear a surgical mask to avoid catching the flu?
- Can I get H1N1 from eating or preparing pork?
- Can I get H1N1 from eating or preparing turkey?
What is H1N1 flu virus?
H1N1 is a new version of the flu virus. It is spread from person to person, and causes the same symptoms as regular flu.
H1N1 flu virus was first detected in Mexico last spring. Within just a few months, it spread to many countries around the world, prompting the World Health Organization in June to declare the first global flu pandemic in 41 years. The H1N1 flu virus has affected many Ontarians and is expected to affect many more.
How can I tell if I have H1N1 or the seasonal flu?
Evidence shows that H1N1 will be the main flu strain in circulation this fall in Ontario. If you become sick with the flu, it is likely you have H1N1.
The symptoms of H1N1 flu virus are similar to the symptoms of regular seasonal flu. They include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhoea and vomiting associated with H1N1 flu.
How does H1N1 flu virus spread?
H1N1 spreads like any other flu virus, mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing. People can become infected by touching objects or surfaces with flu viruses on them and then touching their mouth or nose. Learn more about how to stay healthy this flu season.
How long can someone with the flu infect someone else?
Infected people may be able to infect others beginning one day before symptoms develop and up to seven days after becoming sick. That means that you may be able to pass on the flu to someone else before you know you are sick, as well as while you are sick. Children, especially younger children, might be contagious for longer periods.
Should I wear a surgical mask to avoid catching the flu?
No. You do not need to wear a surgical mask to protect yourself against catching H1N1 flu. Evidence shows that this is not effective in preventing transmission of flu viruses in the general public. People often use masks incorrectly, or contaminate the mask when putting them on and taking them off, which could actually increase the risk of infection.
Can I get H1N1 from eating or preparing pork?
No. Proper cooking of pork products would kill the flu virus. Make sure pork is cooked through, not pink in the middle. Use a food thermometer to confirm pork has been heated through to 71°C (160°F).
Can I get H1N1 from eating or preparing turkey?
No. Proper cooking of poultry products would kill the flu virus. Whole poultry should be cooked through. Use a food thermometer to confirm turkey has been cooked until the inside temperature of the food reaches 82°C (180°F) and then continue cooking for at least 15 seconds.
For More Information
For information about seasonal flu, H1N1 and pandemic preparednessCall the ServiceOntario INFOline at 1-800-476-9708 (Toll-free in Ontario)
TTY 1-800-387-5559
TTY (Toronto) 416-327-4282
Hours of operation : 8:30am - 5:00pm
Visit Telehealth Ontario or call 1-866-797-0000
TTY: 1-866-797-0007
Hours of operation : 24 hours, 7 days a week
Visit ontario.ca/healthcareoptions or call 1-866-330-6206.
To find a health care providerIf you don’t have a health care provider, you can register for the Health Care Connect program. Visit ontario.ca/healthcareconnect or call 1-800-445-1822.
