H1N1 Virus: Symptoms, Treatments & Prevention

What is the H1N1 Virus?

H1N1 virus, commonly known as Swine Flu, is caused by a type of flu (influenza). The history of the H1N1 virus can be traced back to 2009 – 10 when the flu started affecting and causing illness in humans. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the H1N1 virus a pandemic in 2009.

The H1N1 virus is called swine flu because it is similar to the flu virus that affects pigs. The virus in pigs is known to affect the lungs, causing respiratory disease, whereas the H1N1 virus is known to cause respiratory infection in humans.

H1N1 virus is characterised as a contagious respiratory disease caused by the influenza A H1N1 virus. It is a mutation of a swine influenza virus combined with genetic material from human and bird flu viruses. H1N1 virus is defined as a respiratory illness that is spread by the influenza A H1N1 virus. It is believed that the virus was initially acquired from pigs by those who worked closely with infected pigs like pig farmers where airborne particles could have been inhaled.

How Does H1N1 Flu Spread?

H1N1 virus like any other respiratory infection spreads primarily when an infected person sneezes, coughs, or spits. The droplets containing the virus spread into the air which can be inhaled by others. Additionally, the virus can live for up to eight hours after dropping onto surfaces like desks, chairs, doorknobs, etc. 

Once the virus is inhaled it starts to mutate and spreads and the symptoms may start to appear three to five days after exposure to the virus. An infected person can usually stay contagious for 7 days while children and people with weaker immunity can stay infectious for longer.

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What are the Symptoms of H1N1 Virus Infection?

H1N1 virus is a contagious infection with symptoms similar to that of a normal flu. The symptoms may start to appear within 3 – 5 days after exposure to the virus. People infected with the H1N1 virus may experience mild to severe symptoms including:

General Symptoms

General symptoms individuals experience are fever, chills, cough, body aches, etc.

Respiratory Symptoms

The virus can cause respiratory issues causing cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, etc.

Severe Symptoms

The virus can even cause severe symptoms including shortness of breath, chest pain, confusion, bluish lips or face, persistent vomiting, and more.

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How is the H1N1 Virus Diagnosed? 

Diagnosis of H1N1 virus can be done by a healthcare professional. Specialists like pulmonologists and infectious disease specialists specialise in the treatment of the H1N1 virus. The specialist may perform a physical examination to identify and ask about the symptoms. Further, the specialist can suggest some tests to identify the flu including:

Flu (influenza) Test

Test using a respiratory sample to check the presence of the flu viruses.

Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR)

To identify the presence of the H1N1 virus by amplifying specific genetic material.

Rapid Influenza Diagnostic Tests (RIDTs)

Test to detect the presence of influenza antigens on the virus.

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What are the Treatment Options for H1N1 Virus (Swine Flu)?

Individuals suffering from the H1N1 virus usually recover with supportive care like rest and fluids. The treatment options include:

Supportive Care

Supportive care involves getting plenty of rest to help the body fight the infection, drinking plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, eating a light diet, staying home to prevent the spread, etc.

Antiviral Medication

Antiviral medications can help shorten the duration of symptoms, reduce the severity of illness, reduce the risk of complications, etc. Antiviral drugs are most effective if taken when the symptoms begin.

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What are the Preventive Measures Against the H1N1 Virus (Influenza A)?

There are several ways through which H1N1 can be prevented including:

Flu Vaccination

Annual flu vaccine helps prevent against H1N1 virus. It significantly reduces the severity of illness and complications.

Targeted Vaccine

Targeted vaccines can be recommended to individuals at higher risk of serious flu complications including children, pregnant women, people with chronic health conditions, etc.

Hygiene Practices

Follow regular hygiene practices including washing your hands regularly with soap and water or using an alcohol based hand sanitizer, refrain from touching your eyes, nose, and mouth after touching contaminated surfaces.

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FAQs

Can H1N1 spread from person to person?

Yes, H1N1 is contagious and can spread from person to person.

Does H1N1 need isolation?

Yes, individuals with H1N1 should self-isolate to avoid the spread of the virus. 

Is H1N1 airborne?

Yes, H1N1, commonly known as swine flu, is an airborne pathogen.

What is the full form of the H1N1 virus?

H1N1 refers to a virus with type-1 hemagglutinin (H) and type-1 neuraminidase (N) proteins.

Can H1N1 cause death?

Yes, in severe cases H1N1 can lead to serious complications including death.

How did the H1N1 virus start?

The H1N1 virus started from a novel combination of swine, avian, and human influenza viruses.

Is H1N1 very contagious?

Yes, the H1N1 virus is considered highly contagious. 

Can H1N1 cause lung damage?

Yes, the H1N1 virus can cause lung damage. 

How long does the H1N1 virus last?

The H1N1 virus can last for 5 to 7 days, though mild symptoms may persist for longer. 

Is H1N1 rna or dna virus?

H1N1 is an RNA virus. 

When was the H1N1 virus discovered?

The H1N1 in humans was first detected in 2009.

Where did the H1N1 virus originate? 

The H1N1 virus first originated in Mexico and the United States.