H1N1 Flu Virus (Swine Flu)

The H1N1 flu virus is a respiratory disease caused by type A influenza viruses. These viruses have been reported to spread from person-to-person, but in the past, this transmission was limited.

The symptoms of H1N1 flu virus in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with swine flu. In the past, severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and deaths have been reported with H1N1 flu virus infection in people. Like seasonal flu, swine flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.

Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing. Sometimes people may become infected by touching contaminated objects or surfaces with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose. There are everyday actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza.

Take these everyday steps to protect your health:

Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. 60% - 90% alcohol-based hand rub is also effective.
Sneeze and cough in your sleeve.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
If you get sick with the flu, stay home from work or school and limit contact with others.

We ask that you refrain from visiting if you have symptoms of influenza and to stay away until 24 hours after symptoms resolve or 7 days after the onset of their illness, whichever is longer.

Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre is planning for a pandemic to ensure the best outcomes for the most patients, visitors and staff with the least amount of resources. Click the following link to view the TBRHSC Influenza Pandemic Plan Executive Summary.

Please refer to the following links for further H1N1 information:

:: back to top ::