The leaves are changing and the temperature is dropping—you know what that means. Flu season. Chances are if you haven’t had swine flu this year, also known as H1N1, you probably know someone who has. This particular brand of flu has caused a bit of pandemonium for everyone from conspiracy theorists to elementary school parents. And for good reason; this is not your average flu. From 2005 until February of 2009, there were only twelve documented cases of swine flu. Currently, reports show that the rogue flu strain is considered widespread in all but nine states. Before you stop eating pork and barricade yourself indoors for the winter, let’s check the facts. There are a few things you should know about the swine flu, how you can prevent it and what you can do if it shows up in your home.
1. Swine flu is also known as H1N1 virus. The two are basically the same thing, however, H1N1 refers to a specific type-A influenza that is present in pigs. It’s actually one of four type-A flu viruses. Calling the virus “H1N1” prevents confusion with other strains of the virus. Plus, pig farmers were getting pretty mad a few months ago when their pork product sales plummeted after the initial outbreak. So, for sake of the livelihood of pig-farmers everywhere—it’s probably best to refer to the virus as “H1N1” and not so much swine flu.
2. You cannot catch H1N1 from eating pork. Swine flu is not transmitted by food consumption, so if you want to have sausage on your pizza, rest assured. Just make sure that, as with all meat, you cook it to an internal temperature of 160°F. That will kill any bacteria that might be in the meat.
3. H1N1 can be transmitted several ways. You can get H1N1 from contact with an infected pig, but unless you frequent petting zoos or live on a farm, you’re far more likely to acquire the flu from another human. Like other flu viruses, transmission of H1N1 passes from person to person through coughing, sneezing, sharing a coke—anything where your eyes, nose, or mouth comes in contact with an infected person’s germs.
