The H1N1(swine flu) virus resulted in the 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic. The pandemic was declared by the World Health Organization (WHO) in June 2009. H1N1 is an influenza A virus that has components of four influenza virus sequences from North American swine and avian influenzas, human influenza, and Eurasian swine influenza. This novel H1N1 virus has come about as a result of viral recombination and re-assortment.
Impact of 2009 H1N1 Virus
The H1N1 (swine flu) virus was first recognized in spring 2009 with outbreaks in North America. The virus had not been previously identified prior to the 2009 pandemic, and does not cause infections in swine. According to WHO, as of May 2010, the 2009 H1N1 influenza had caused at least 18,114 deaths, and the infection had been reported worldwide in more than 214 countries and overseas territories or communities. The number of infections caused by the H1N1 virus is no longer recorded.
2009 H1N1 Virus Transmission
The virus is easily transmissible between humans, but is not highly virulent, and as such, while the 2009 H1N1 virus can spread quickly, the risk of serious illness or death as a result of infection is low. Those with underlying chronic conditions, including chronic lung conditions, obesity and diabetes, and pregnant women are at greatest risk of serious illness.
Signs and Symptoms of Disease
Those with disease as a result of infection develop flu-like symptoms that can include fever, cough, headache, muscle pain, joint pain, sore throat, runny nose, vomiting and diarrhea. Individuals with prolonged symptoms, such as fever for several days, should seek medical attention. In particular, WHO recommends medical attention for young children, those with underlying conditions and pregnant women with symptoms of disease.
Preventing Transmission
Viral transmission occurs via coughs, sneezes, unclean hands and surfaces; hand washing is an important preventative measure which reduces the risk of H1N1 virus transmission. Vaccines are also available to prevent infection with the H1N1 virus. WHO describes 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccines as being "as safe as seasonal influenza vaccines." Two vaccination doses are required to provide protection.
Treatment
If disease does occur, there are drugs available, which can treat and clear the viral infection. Oseltamivir and zanamivir are two antiviral drugs that can treat infection. However, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention there is documented drug resistance to oseltamivir in 2009 H1N1 viruses. A third drug, peramivir, can also be used in emergency situations.
2009 H1N1 Pandemic Fears
As of May 2010, the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus has not become a pandemic causing high rates of mortality. In relation to the 2009 pandemic, the Director-General of WHO, Dr. Margaret Chan told the assembly in her opening address, "Sometimes... we are just plain lucky."
