H1N1 influenza basics
About H1N1
H1N1 is an acute and highly contagious respiratory virus similar to seasonal flu but affecting a younger age group. Less immunity exists to this novel strain of the flu than to seasonal flu. H1N1 influenza in humans can vary in severity from mild to severe.
The H1N1 virus is thought to spread in the same way seasonal flu is spread: from person to person through droplets produced by coughs and sneezes, or from touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your mouth, nose or eyes.
The virus can stay alive on surfaces and your hands and body for at least two hours.
It will be difficult to tell if someone who is sick has H1N1 flu or seaonal flu. Public health officials and medical authorities will not be recommending laboratory tests to distinguish between flu strains. UCLA advises you to contact your health care provider if you have flu-like symptoms.
Students who become ill with influenza-like symptoms should contact the Arthur Ashe Student Health and Wellness Center (310-825-4073), particularly if you are worried about your symptoms.
More detailed background information is available at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.
