Information about Influenza A (H1N1) Virus (Swine Flu)

The severity of influenza A(H1N1) virus disease resembles more and more the seasonal influenza and so far there has not been an epidemic in Finland. However, the epidemic is to be expected to begin during the autumn. Below you can find some information about the influenza and some instructions how to reduce the risk for infection and spread of the virus.

Symptoms of the influenza A(H1N1)-virus:

• fever (38 Celsius-degrees or more)
• sore throat, cough, runny nose
• body aches, tiredness, headache and chills
  

How the influenza spreads?

Influenza spreads from person to person through droplets coughed or sneezed into the air by people already infected with the virus. Influenza is also transmitted through hands, which can carry the infection.

Some instructions:

• wash your hands regularly and carefully with soap and plenty of water. You can also use, for example, alcoholbased hand sanitizers.
• avoid close contact with people who appear to be ill and also avoid handshaking. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth, because your hands may have picked up viruses from different surfaces like door handles.
• coughing and sneezing: when you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose with a disposable tissue or if you don't have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve. Throw away the used tissues immediately into a trash bin and remember to wash your hands carefully.
• if ill: stay at home and do not go to university/school/work. This will help to prevent the spread of the influenza. Monitor your health and, if necessary, telephone your doctor/own health centre. Home treatment is enough, if you have only mild symptoms and you are otherwise healthy. In most cases, people recover from the flu in home care within a week. If your symptoms are prolonged or severe, you should contact your doctor/own health centre. You can go back to university/school/work, when you no longer have any symptoms.

More information:
National Institute for Health and Welfare