H1N1 Flu Virus (Human Swine Influenza) upgraded to level 6 Pandemic by WHO

Human swine influenza has been reported in Canada, Mexico and the United States, and several other countries. Governments around the world and the World Health Organization are engaged to investigate and address this situation.

 

Swine influenza (sometimes called swine flu) is a strain of the influenza virus that usually affects pigs, but which may also make people sick. Human swine influenza is a respiratory illness that causes symptoms similar to those of the regular human seasonal flu.  The symptoms include fever, fatigue, lack of appetite, coughing and sore throat.  Some people with human swine influenza have also reported vomiting and diarrhea.

According to the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), there are simple measures to minimize the risk of being infected. These steps include simply washing your hands, controlling coughs and sneezes, staying home when sick, and talking to a health professional if you experience flu-like symptoms.

The PHAC is working collaboratively with Mexican and American officials to further investigate this situation and will share information with Canadians as it becomes available.