Public Health Update


H1N1 (Swine) Influenza Information

Gardner-Webb University is closely monitoring developments regarding the spread of the swine flu virus (H1N1).

The University has created a H1N1 Crisis Management Team to gather information from local, state and federal sources including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The University's Health Information and Policy Consultant offers the following information:

What is H1N1 (swine) flu?

Novel H1N1 (referred to as "swine flu" early on) is a new influenza virus causing illness in people. This new virus was first detected in people in the United States in April 2009. This virus is spreading from person-to-person worldwide, probably in much the same way that regular seasonal influenza viruses spread. (Centers for Disease Control)

How do you catch H1N1 (swine) flu?

Spread of H1N1 (swine) flu can occur in two ways:

  • Through contact with infected pigs or environments contaminated with swine flu viruses.
  • Through contact with a person with H1N1 (swine) flu. Human-to-human spread of H1N1 (swine) flu has been documented also and is thought to occur in the same way as seasonal flu. Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people.

How long can an infected person spread H1N1 (swine) flu to others?

People with H1N1 (swine) influenza virus infection should be considered potentially contagious as long as they are symptomatic and possible for up to 7 days following illness onset. Children, especially younger children, might potentially be contagious for longer periods.

Stay Informed and learn more

We recommend the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as a reliable source of information regarding the H1N1 crisis: http://cdc.gov/swineflu/. The Centers may also be contacted by phone: 1-800-CDC-INFO