The transmission from swine to human is believed to occur mainly in swine farms where farmers are in close contact with live pigs. Since the outbreak of transmission had occurred, the farmers were requested to use face mask while treating with infected animals.

Prevention of Spread in Humans:

Influenza spreads between humans through coughing or sneezing but it is restricted to pork products, since the virus is not transmitted through food. Swine flu in humans is most contagious during the first five days of the illness although some people, most commonly children can remain contagious for up to 10 days. The standard infection control, which includes frequent washing of hands with soap and water or with alcohol based hand sanitizers. A new H1N1 starin vaccines are being developed and could be ready as early as June 2009.

If a person has been exposed to a confirmed case of swine influenza, a physician may recommend a course of medications to reduce the risk of disease. This is called “prophylaxis.” In settings where there are large numbers of confirmed cases, prophylaxis may also be recommended for people with chronic medical conditions that put them at risk for complications. The CDC has issued guidelines for prophylaxis for swine influenza in special circumstances (www.cdc.gov).

Prevention of Transmission To Humans videos: