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Frequently Asked Questions About 2009 H1N1 Flu Virus
Updated November 16, 2009
These questions and answers are based on what is currently known about the virus, and will be updated as we get new information.
Q:What is swine flu?
A:Swine flu is a respiratory disease caused by type A influenza virus that regularly causes outbreaks of influenza in pigs. The "classical" swine flu virus (an influenza type A H1N1 virus) was first isolated from a pig in 1930. Swine flu viruses cause illness in pigs, but the death rates are low. This new virus, although it is being called "swine flu," is not the same virus and is primarily a human virus.
Q:How does this virus differ from bird flu?
A:The 2009 H1N1 flu virus is an entirely different virus than the bird flu (H5N1) you've been hearing about in the news. Among these differences is that humans infected with bird flu were infected by direct contact with sick birds, and this new virus is not generally being spread by contact with animals (with only two exceptions to date). In addition, the highly pathogenic H5N1 influenza virus that causes the bird flu in the news has not been reported in North America to date.
Q:Did this flu come from pigs? Can I catch it from pigs?
A:At this time, we don't know exactly where the virus came from. Although this new influenza is being called "swine flu," it is being spread mainly from person to person. None of the U.S. cases had contact with pigs.
On May 2, 2009 Canadian authorities announced 2009 H1N1 infection in a herd of pigs in Alberta. Exactly how the pigs became infected is not known at this time - initial reports indicated the pigs were infected by a farm worker who had recently traveled to Mexico, but this was proven wrong when blood tests on the worker showed he had never been exposed to the 2009 H1N1 virus. For updates, go to the CFIA's Web site. The virus has also been detected in several swine herds in Manitoba and in a swine herd in Northern Ireland.
There have been two confirmed cases of swine-to-human transmission of the 2009 H1N1 virus. Two Canadian Food Inspection Agency inspectors became ill with the 2009 H1N1 virus while investigating an outbreak of the virus on a swine farm in Alberta in late April 2009.
So far, 2009 H1N1 influenza virus infection of pigs has been reported in Canada, Argentina, Singapore, the United Kingdom (Northern Ireland), Ireland, Norway, the U.S. and Japan. Based on the evidence available at this time, all of the infections were spread from humans to swine.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), World Health Organization (WHO), and other health agencies worldwide continue to monitor the pandemic.
Q: Can this flu infect birds? Can I get it from birds?
A: We know it can infect poultry, but we don't know if it can affect other birds (including pet birds). In August 2009, authorities in Chile reported 2009 H1N1 influenza in two turkey farms near Valparaiso. In October 2009, the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs confirmed 2009 H1N1 in a turkey flock in Ontario, Canada. It is not yet known if infected birds can pass the 2009 H1N1 virus to humans.
Q:What is known about the 2009 H1N1 virus?
A:This new virus was first reported in late March/early April 2009 in central Mexico and the border states of California and Texas. Since that time, the virus has been reported worldwide. Genetic testing suggests the virus originated in pigs, but we don't know exactly when or where it "leaped" to humans.
The symptoms are very similar to human respiratory flu, with possible additional gastrointestinal side effects such as vomiting, stomach ache and diarrhea. In the United States, the majority of cases so far have had self-limiting flu-like symptoms—just as with the "normal" seasonal flu, they are ill for a few days and then recover. In severe cases, pneumonia can develop. Deaths have been reported, but most people recover from this flu in the same way they recover from the usual human flu. People at higher risk of disease, or more severe disease, include pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems.
The information is rapidly changing because this is an emerging situation. For up-to-date information, the CDC H1N1 Flu site is a good resource.
Q:How did the new virus develop? Where did it come from?
A:In general, influenza viruses commonly stick to one species when it comes to infection; for example, dogs and cats don't get seasonal flu from their owners. However, under the right conditions, influenza viruses from different species are capable of mixing and swapping genes (this is called reassortment), resulting in a new virus. Swine flu can merge with other influenza viruses, such as avian or human flu, to produce new strains. The 2009 H1N1 flu virus consists of North American swine influenza viruses, North American avian influenza viruses, human influenza viruses and swine influenza viruses found in both Asia and Europe.
Q:Can my pet get the 2009 H1N1 virus?
A:Until recently, we had no reason to believe pets could be infected with the 2009 H1N1 virus because it is very uncommon for flu viruses to jump between species. However, on October 9, 2009, a USDA laboratory confirmed 2009/H1N1 infection in a ferret. The ferret's owner had recently been ill with the flu. Ferrets are more susceptible to infection with influenza viruses, so this was not altogether surprising. At this time, there are no reports of the 2009 H1N1 flu virus being transmitted from a ferret to a person.
On November 4, the Iowa State Veterinarian and the Iowa Department of Public Health announced that a pet cat was confirmed infected with the 2009 H1N1 flu virus. The cat's owners were ill and the cat developed respiratory symptoms shortly afterward. The cat has recovered and there is no evidence at this time that the cat passed the virus to any people. A second cat, this one in Utah, was confirmed infected with the 2009 H1N1 virus on November 13. Like the first cat, the cat's owner was ill with flu-like symptoms prior to the cat's illness. The cat had difficult breathing and was taken to a veterinarian for treatment. The cat is recovering from its illness.
Pets that live indoors, especially cats, tend to have close contact with their owners – after all, that's why we have pets – and that increases their chances of being exposed to diseases. The best advice is to always follow common sense guidelines when dealing with animals (for example, washing your hands). In addition, it's more important than ever that pet owners keep a good eye on their pet's health and consult a veterinarian if their pet is showing any signs of illness. Keeping your pets healthy reduces their risk of becoming ill.
Q:I've heard about ferrets and two cats getting the 2009 H1N1 virus. Should I get rid of my ferret or cat so my family is protected?
A:Certainly not. This is not cause for panic and extreme measures. You are much more likely to catch the flu (any type of flu, including the 2009 H1N1 flu) from an infected person than you are from an animal. So far, all of the pets infected with the 2009 H1N1 virus became infected from being around their ill owners. The main lesson here is that if you're feeling ill and have flu-like symptoms, you should probably limit your contact with your pets (and other people, for that matter) until you are feeling better. As always, if your pet is showing signs of illness, it should be examined by a veterinarian.
Q:What symptoms would I see in my dog or cat if it developed H1N1?
A:So far, there haven't been any reports of dogs infected with the 2009 H1N1 flu virus. Based on what's been reported, ferrets and two cats – and probably dogs, if they can become infected with the virus – have shown signs of respiratory illness. These signs can include lethargy, loss of appetite, fever, runny nose and/or eyes, sneezing, coughing, or changes in breathing (including difficulty breathing).
Keep in mind that dogs currently have their own flu virus, the H3N8 influenza (canine influenza) virus, going around. So far, this flu virus has only been spread from dog to dog. Dogs infected with the canine influenza virus show the same symptoms as dogs with kennel cough – fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, coughing, and maybe a runny nose. For more in-depth information on canine influenza, view our canine influenza backgrounder.
Q:How serious is this disease in dogs or cats?
A:We don't yet know. There haven't been any reports of dogs infected with the 2009 H1N1 flu virus, and there have only been two cats confirmed to be infected. The infected cats recovered from their illness.
Q:Should I keep the people in the house who have respiratory disease away from the pet and vice-versa?
A:Until we know more about the risks of spreading the virus from person to pet, pet to pet, or pet to person, it's a good idea to limit contact between an ill family member and other family members and pets. If your pet is ill, contact your veterinarian.
Q:Is there a vaccine that can be used for pets? Can the human H1N1 vaccine be used for pets? What about the canine influenza vaccine?
A:There is not a licensed and approved 2009 H1N1 vaccine for pets. The human H1N1 vaccine should not be used for pets. The canine influenza vaccine, which protects dogs from the H3N8 flu virus, will not protect pets against the 2009 H1N1 virus and should not be used in any species other than dogs.
Q:Someone in my home is ill and may have the 2009 H1N1 virus. Should we board our pet(s) until this person has recovered?
A:That decision is really up to you. Your pet may have already been exposed to the virus by the time the family member starts showing symptoms, so it might not be best to uproot your pet, possibly stressing them, and put them in another environment. If you're worried your pet may become infected with the influenza virus, treat your pet like you would any other family member – follow good hygiene when you come in contact with them, and limit their exposure to ill family members.
Q:Can my pot-bellied pig get the 2009 H1N1 virus and give it to me?
A:To date, the 2009 H1N1 virus has not been reported in pot-bellied pigs. However, the possibility of human-to-pig transmission of the virus warrants extra caution by pig owners. After all, pot-bellied pigs are considered swine, and therefore may be susceptible to the virus. For the time being, a cautious approach would include all contact between your pig and anyone who is ill or has recently been exposed to an ill person. Remember that pot-bellied pigs can become ill from a number of causes, and keeping your pig healthy and free of disease helps protect your pig as well as you. If you have a pet pig and it appears ill, consult a veterinarian immediately.
Q:There are feral pigs in my area. Can they spread the 2009 H1N1 virus?
A: To date, the 2009 H1N1 virus has not been reported in feral pigs. However, pigs can become infected with the virus, and caution is recommended. Remember that feral pigs can spread other diseases, and it is best to avoid contact with them—this goes for you and your animals. Feral pigs are best left to the proper authorities to handle, so contact your local animal control office if you need to report a feral pig problem.
Q:I keep hearing the words "pandemic" and "epidemic." What do they mean, and what is the difference?
A:An epidemic is a marked rise in disease in an area. This new virus is certainly causing an epidemic. This is not unusual for a new virus—because people have not been exposed to the virus before, their immune systems aren't ready to fight it off, and more people become ill. The SARS epidemic of 2003 is an example.
A pandemic is like an epidemic that's expanded to a larger area. In most cases, "pandemic" is used to describe a world-wide epidemic of disease. The 1918 Spanish flu and the Black Plague are extreme examples of pandemics. Keep in mind, though, that a pandemic doesn't necessarily mean millions of deaths—it means a widespread epidemic.
Q:I've heard news reports of swine herds in Canada and Northern Ireland, poultry flocks in Chile and Ontario (Canada), and pigs at the 2009 Minnesota State Fair that have tested positive for the 2009 H1N1 flu. In addition, a commercial swine herd in Indiana was reported to have H1N1. How does this change the situation?
A:So far, 2009 H1N1 influenza virus infection of pigs has been reported in Canada, Argentina, Singapore, the United Kingdom (Northern Ireland), Ireland, Norway, the U.S., Taiwan and Japan. It has also been reported in turkeys in Chile and Canada. Based on the evidence available at this time, all of the infections were spread from humans to the animals.
Keep in mind these are ongoing investigations, and there is still much to be learned. Swine farms, poultry farms and veterinarians are continuing their surveillance and biosecurity programs to protect our nation's herds and our public health. Otherwise, the situation really hasn't changed for most of us. Caution and common sense are still important, and pork and poultry products are still safe to eat.
Q: How should I protect myself from getting the 2009 H1N1 virus?
A:Common sense is always the best guideline. According to the CDC, the following precautions should be taken at all times to promote good health:
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then dispose of the tissue—flu and cold germs are spread mainly by person-to-person contact and the coughing or sneezing of infected people.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth, as these are the primary places germs can enter your body.
- Have limited contact with people who are obviously sick.
- If you get sick, stay home from work or school and limit contact with others.
Q:Can I get the 2009 H1N1 virus from eating pork or poultry?
A:No. There are no reported cases of the 2009 H1N1 flu virus in people from eating pork or poultry. This new virus is not a food-borne disease. However, good food hygiene is always recommended to protect yourself and your family from disease.
As always, when consuming meat products safe food practices should be followed. You can consult the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Be Food Safe site at http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Be_FoodSafe/BFS_for_Consumers/index.asp for tips on the cleaning, preparation and safe cooking temperatures for pork, as well as other meat and poultry products.
Q:I think I might be sick with the new virus, and I want to get a prescription for an antiviral. Can I get that from my veterinarian?
A:No. It is illegal for a veterinarian to prescribe medications for people. It is also unethical and illegal for a veterinarian to write a false prescription for a pet so the pet's owner can obtain the medication for themselves.
Q:What if my pet needs an antiviral drug? Will my veterinarian be able to get the drugs?
A:This new H1N1 virus is spreading mainly by human-to-human contact. Keep in mind that pandemic planning, by necessity, must place a priority on treating infection in people—for that reason, antiviral medication supplies will be closely guarded and there may be strict guidelines in place that will determine how they are dispensed. Availability of antivirals may be low for non-pandemic response use. We encourage veterinarians to use their clinical judgment and weigh these factors when considering the necessity of an antiviral drug for a client's pet. The use of antiviral medications in food animals is strictly regulated—and is prohibited in some species—and food supply veterinarians are already aware of these regulations.
Q:I show pigs, and I'm worried about the H1N1 influenza virus. Should I stop showing my pigs?
A:The choice is really up to you. You don't have to stop showing, but you should take proper precautions to protect your pigs. The National Pork Board has released some guidelines for managing risk at swine exhibitions, and these are recommended reading for you.
Links to more information about the 2009 H1N1 flu
AVMA
Straight talk about the H1N1 virus
Dr. DeHaven, Chief Executive Officer of the AVMA, speaks with Bob Meyer of Brownfield (includes audio)
Dr. Ron DeHaven, chief executive officer of the American Veterinary Medical Association, explains H1N1 and how it affects people, their pets, and the food they eat. (May 1, 2009)
Swine Influenza Backgrounder
American Association of Swine Veterinarians (AASV)
AASV Human Cases of Swine Influenza
CDC
CDC H1N1 Flu
For general information on H1N1 flu, general health information guidelines, updates on the status of the H1N1 flu outbreak, and travel advisories
2009 H1N1 Flu Frequently Asked Questions (including questions about H1N1 and domestic animals)
Interim Guidance for Workers who are Employed at Commercial Swine Farms: Preventing the Spread of Influenza A Viruses, Including the 2009 H1N1 Virus
USDA
Be Food Safe
Frequently Asked Questions About H1N1
Updated Statement By Agriculture Secretary Vilsack Regarding USDA Efforts Regarding H1N1 Flu Outbreak
OIE (World Organisation for Animal Health)
A/H1N1 influenza like human illness in Mexico and the USA: OIE statement
World Health Organization (WHO)
WHO Swine Influenza
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