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Is this virus contagious? How does it spread between people?
The virus is believed to be spread in the same
manner as seasonal influenza: person to person mainly by "droplet
spread." This happens when droplets from a cough or sneeze are released
into the air and then are breathed in by others who are within a 2 metre (6 foot)
distance. The virus can also be spread when a person touches respiratory
droplets on another person or an object and then touches his or her own eyes,
mouth or nose before cleaning his/her hands.
How long can someone with the flu infect someone else?
Someone with the flu may be able to infect
others beginning 1 day before symptoms develop and up to 7 or more days after
becoming sick. That means that you may be able to pass on the flu to someone
else before you know you are sick, as well as during your illness. Children,
especially younger children, may potentially be contagious for longer periods.
What can I do to protect myself and others from getting sick?
The following precautions reduce the spread of
all viruses, including H1N1 flu virus.
These precautions apply to individuals as well as group settings, such
as schools, daycares, workplaces and restaurants.
- Keep up to date with your
immunizations. A new H1N1 flu virus vaccine will be available in late 2009.
This will be offered in addition to seasonal flu vaccine.
- Cleaning your hands is the most
important activity in preventing illness. Clean your hands often (for at least
15 seconds) with soap and water or with a 60% to 90% alcohol-based hand rub.
Hands should be cleaned:
- after coughing, sneezing or blowing
your nose
- after using the bathroom
- after shaking hands
- before eating and/or preparing food
- before touching your face
- when you or someone you come into contact with is sick
- Sneeze and cough into your
upper sleeve.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose
or mouth. Germs spread this way.
- Do not go to work or school if
ill. If you are sick, limit your contact with other people as much as possible.
- Household disinfectants will
kill the virus on household items and surfaces. Read the labels for proper use.
Clean and disinfect surfaces like doorknobs and counters often.
Group settings (like schools, day cares, workplaces) should follow basic infection prevention and control practises which include:
- Send those with symptoms of
illness home and advise them to stay home until well.
- Remind everyone of the
importance of regular, thorough hand and personal hygiene.
- Encourage everyone to avoid
sharing food, beverages and other personal items.
- Ensure bathrooms have a supply
of liquid soap and paper towels or a working hand dryer at all times.
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If not enough sinks, have
alcohol-based hand rubs available. These products will require supervision in
certain environments, for example with confused individuals and children.
Can I get H1N1 flu virus from eating or preparing pork?
No. Proper cooking of pork products would kill
any viruses. Make sure pork is cooked through, not pink in the middle. Use a
food thermometer to confirm pork has been heated through to 71 degrees Celsius
(160 degrees Fahrenheit).
When should I seek medical care?
Call your health care provider or Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000 if you experience flu-like
symptoms and:
- are pregnant;
- have heart or lung disease;
- have chronic health problems that require regular medical
attention;
- are elderly;
- have an illness that affects your immune system, such as diabetes,
cancer or HIV/AIDS.
Seek medical care for children right away if you
notice any of the following signs:
- fast or difficult breathing;
- increased drowsiness and irritability;
- not drinking enough fluids or signs of dehydration;
- flu-like
symptoms become worse.
Who can I talk to if I have more questions?
For general information, call the Brant County
Health Unit at 519-753-4937 Ext. 259 Monday to Friday between 8:30 a.m. and
4:30 p.m. Also see internet resources identified below.
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Health Topics 
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