H1N1 (Swine Flu)
H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu)
H1N1 Influenza is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses that causes regular outbreaks in pigs. People do not normally get H1N1 flu, but human infections can and do happen. Human cases of H1N1 influenza A (swine flu) virus infection have been identified in the United States.
Signs and Symptoms
The symptoms of H1N1 flu in people are similar to the symptoms of seasonal flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with H1N1 flu. In the past, severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and deaths have been reported with H1N1 flu infection in people. Like seasonal flu, H1N1 flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions. (Source: Ohio Department of Health)
For Health Care Providers
H1N1 influenza virus is thought to be spread primarily through person to person contact. CDC indicates that not all patients with suspected novel influenza need to be seen by a health care provider . CDC and the Ohio Department of Health recommend that select groups may be considered at risk for complications and priority for testing may include those individuals who are hospitalized or in the risk groups. See CDC for the most current identification and treatment guidelines.
At this time, an H1N1 infected person should be considered potentially infectious from one day before to seven days following illness onset. Please check with the Toledo Lucas County Health Department if you wish to submit a specimen for analysis to the Ohio Department of Health Lab. It is recommended that an individual sick with a flu-like illness stay home for 7 days after their symptoms begin or until they have been symptom-free for 24 hours, whichever is longer. (Source: ODH & CDC)
Pandemic Flu Emergency Planning
Emergency Planning for Businesses:
Emergency contingency planning for local businesses is extremely important, especially during uncertain economic times. Emergency contingency planning simply asks the question "What are the most critical functions within a business firm that would allow operations to continue even during a disaster?" While many businesses are having a difficult time balancing their budget during normal operations let alone during a disaster, an emergency plan could help businesses address these important questions as well as allow them to identify critical components of their business structure overall. Please visit the following links for assistance:
H1N1 Planning for Businesses
Pandemic Flu Planning for Businesses
Contingency Planning for Businesses
Emergency Planning and Guidance for Schools:
In order to maintain a healthy school environment during a pandemic flu event or a disaster, emergency planning efforts for schools are recommended. Proper steps should be taken to ensure that the safety and health of students, teachers, and other school staff become a priority. Please visit the following links for assistance:
Pandemic Flu Planning for Schools
Emergency Planning for Kids
Emergency Planning for Community and Faith-based Organizations:
Community and Faith-based organizations would obviously plan a vital role in the event a pandemic flu or disaster took place. This means that emergency planning efforts are very necessary so that collaboration within the community becomes integral at the very least. Please visit the following links:
Pandemic Flu Planning for Community and Faith-based Organizations
Community Emergency Planning
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to travel to Mexico?
On May 15, 2009, CDC's Travel Health Warning recommending against non-essential travel to Mexico, in effect since April 27, 2009, was downgraded to a Travel Health Precaution. CDC continues to recommend that travelers visiting Mexico take steps to protect themselves from getting H1N1 flu. CDC recommends that travelers at high risk for complications of influenza discuss with their physicians the risks and benefits of travel to Mexico, and may want to consider postponing travel.
Is pork, fruits and vegetables from Mexico safe to eat?
Influenza is not transmitted from properly cooked pork. All pork products should be fully cooked. Eating fruits and vegetables is not a way that influenza is spread. Wash fresh produce before eating. (Source: ODH)
How do I prevent the spread of H1N1 flu?
Handwashing is on of the most important precautions to take to reduce the spread of H1N1 flu. Clean shared computer keyboards, remote controls, doorknobs, light switches, bathrooms sink and toilet handles frequently.
Local Contacts
United Way - Get Connected. Get Answers.
Dial 2-1-1
Toledo-Lucas County Health Department - H1N1 Flu Hotline
(419) 213-4114
After Normal Business Hours
CLIC - (419) 245-1000
Ohio Department of Health - Tollfree number
1-866-800-1404
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday - Friday
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