What About the H1N1 Virus?
Influenza, or the Flu, is a contagious respiratory infection caused by the influenza, or flu, virus. The symptoms include fever, chills, cough, aches, and fatigue.
This year, families should also be aware of the H1N1 2009 flu virus (earlier referred to as the "swine flu"). It is a new strain and it is not included in the seasonal flu vaccine. However, other flu prevention steps are the same for both strains.

The symptoms of the H1N1 virus are similar to seasonal flu, including fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue, diarrhea and vomiting. Click here for more information on the H1N1 virus.

The CDC has determined that the H1N1 virus is contagious and spreads from human to human in the same way as the seasonal flu virus. Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through people with influenza coughing or sneezing. Sometimes a person may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.

Make sure to follow flu prevention steps to help protect your family from the H1N1 virus. Also continue checking our CDC flu news feed for the most up-to-date information.
Get Vaccinated
Use our resources to find out where you can get vaccinated.
Start Here
Handwashing Reward Chart
The Handwashing Reward Chart helps establish good habits with positive reinforcement.
Read More
Take the pledge
Learn more