Technically, the term "swine flu" refers to influenza in pigs. Occasionally, pigs transmit influenza viruses to people, mainly to hog farmers and veterinarians. Less often, someone infected with swine flu passes the infection to others.
In the spring of 2009, scientists recognized a particular strain of flu virus known as H1N1. This virus is actually a combination of viruses from pigs, birds and humans. During the 2009-10 flu season, H1N1 caused the respiratory infection in humans that was commonly referred to as swine flu. Because so many people around the world got sick that year, the World Health Organization declared the flu caused by H1N1 to be a global pandemic.
In August 2010, the World Health Organization declared the pandemic over. Since that time, scientists have changed the way they name viruses. The H1N1 virus is now known as H1N1v. The v stands for variant and indicates that the virus normally circulates in animals but has been detected in humans. Since 2011, another strain, H3N2v, has been circulating in humans and also causes the flu. Both strains are included in the flu vaccine for 2018-19.
The signs and symptoms of swine flu are similar to those of infections caused by other flu strains and can include:
- Fever (but not always)
- Chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Watery, red eyes
- Body aches
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
Flu symptoms develop about one to three days after you're exposed to the virus.
Influenza viruses infect the cells that line your nose, throat and lungs. The virus enters your body when you inhale contaminated droplets or transfer live virus from a contaminated surface to your eyes, nose or mouth.
You can't catch swine flu from eating pork.
If you've lived in or traveled to an area where many people are affected by swine flu, you may have been exposed to the virus.
Swine farmers and veterinarians have the highest risk of exposure to true swine flu because they work with and are near pigs.
Influenza complications include:
- Worsening of chronic conditions, such as heart disease and asthma
- Pneumonia
- Neurological signs and symptoms, ranging from confusion to seizures
- Respiratory failure
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