H1N1 Flu
Swine flu is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses. The name “swine flu” actually refers to the origin of some of the pieces of the virus and is not related to how this particular disease is spread or the source of infection in the community.
Like seasonal flu, swine flu in humans can vary in severity from mild to severe. The current strain of the virus appears only to be spreading from person to person and swine have not been found to be infected. Also, there is no risk of being infected with any type of swine flu from consuming pork products.
With cases having now been confirmed in Clark County, the Southern Nevada Health District is working closely with local partners to ensure surveillance systems and response plans are in place to allow a rapid response of local cases.
The Nevada State Health Division has activated a call center to answer questions about H1N1 flu. The information line can be reached locally through the health district by calling (702) 759-4636 (INFO) or 1(866) 767-5038.
For more information on H1N1 including facts and vaccine information, visit the Southern Nevada Health District Web site at www.cchd.org.
