FAQ about Influenza A (H1N1)

This is a community service from Avenant Medical so that members of the public have a better understanding and can take the necessary precautions.

What is Influenza A (H1N1) ?

This is a respiratory disease caused by the Type A Influenza (flu) virus. It occurs in pigs and in recent months following an outbreak in Mexico, it is apparent that the virus has spread to human beings.

Is this flu virus contagious?

It has been determined that this virus is contagious and can spread from human to human. However, at this time, it not known how easily the virus spreads between people.

What are the symptoms of Influenza A (H1N1)?

The symptoms in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human seasonal influenza and include:

- Fever
- Lethargy
- Running nose
- Cough and/or sore throat
- Lack of appetite
- Vomiting and diarrhoea in some cases


What measures can I take to prevent infection?

General infection control practices and good personal hand hygiene can help to reduce transmission of all viruses, including this type of influenza. This includes:

- Covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, using a tissue when possible
- Disposing of dirty tissues promptly and carefully
- Maintaining good basic hygiene, for example washing hands frequently with soap and water to reduce the spread of the virus from your hands to face or to other people. Use of antiseptic handwash liquids is even better, if possible.
- Sanitising food contact surfaces and touch-points (e.g. door/fridge handles) using antiseptic cleansers (e.g. disinfectant wipes)
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth unnecessarily

If someone is feeling sick and shows symptoms of this influenza, what should they do?

They should immediately visit a doctor who will determine whether they are infected and the doctor will provide instructions on further action to be taken in the event there is a strong possibility of infection. They should also note down who they may have been in contact with to assist medical authorities and, as a precaution, remain at home until further instructions are received from health authorities.

Who should I contact to obtain information on the virus?

The Health Ministry's Disease Control Division has activated its operations room to monitor the Influenza A(H1N1) situation. Further information on the disease could be obtained by contacting 03-8881 0200 or 03-8881 0300. Latest information is also available at http://www.moh.gov.my/