• This is a new virus, most people will not have immunity to it and so illness may be more severe and widespread as a result.

Novel H1N1 Virus or S-0IV flu is a viral infection known to live in pigs. However, this particular strain DID NOT come from swine (pigs).

It is most common in Mexico, Europe, China, Japan, and some other parts of eastern Asia.  It is also common in the United States in the midwest.  Occasionally, other states in the U.S. report cases of Novel H1N1 Virus or S-0IV flu in pigs.  This virus is rare in humans.

According to the CDC, the epidemic seen in 2009 is known as the Novel H1N1 Virus or
S-0IV flu, but is really a new strain of influenza A.  It is called H1N1 and contains one strain of human influenza, one strain of avian, and two different and unique strains of Novel H1N1 Virus or S-0IV influenza.

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that this particular strain has not been indicated in pigs.

It spreads easily from one person to another. In most cases, mild to moderate flu like symptoms are reported.  There has been two deaths from this virus..

It's important to note there are 36,000 deaths from the regular flu every year. Most often  these deaths occur to the very young, the very old, and those who have compromised immune systems.

Symptoms of the Novel H1N1 Virus or S-0IV flu are similar to those in other types of flu:

• fever
• body aches
• runny nose
• sore throat
• cough
• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea

The CDC recommends those with flu like symptoms stay home, get plenty of bed rest and drink liquids.  Limit contact with other people unless the illness gets severe enough to require medical care.

This flu does not come from pork.  Avoiding pork during this epidemic is not indicated.