H1N1 Influenza (Swine Flu)

• H1N1 is a subtype of Influenza A virus.
• It is commonly associated with swine flu, though the 2009 pandemic strain was a reassortant virus containing genetic material from swine, avian and human influenza viruses.
• Transmission: Mainly through respiratory droplets and aerosols from infected persons.
• Symptoms: Fever, cough, sore throat, body ache, headache, fatigue and sometimes vomiting/diarrhoea.
• Severe cases: May cause pneumonia, respiratory failure and death, especially in vulnerable groups.
• High-risk groups: Pregnant women, young children, elderly persons and people with certain underlying health conditions.
• Diagnosis: Can be confirmed through laboratory testing, including RT-PCR.
• Treatment: Antiviral medicines such as oseltamivir may be used, particularly for severe disease or high-risk patients.
• Prevention: Vaccination, hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette and avoiding close contact with infected persons.
• Antibiotics: Do not treat influenza viruses; they are useful only when a bacterial infection is also present.
• Important distinction: H1N1 is a viral disease, not a bacterial disease.

Prelims MCQs

Q1. Consider the following statements regarding H1N1 influenza:

1. H1N1 is a subtype of Influenza A virus.
2. It is caused by a bacterium.
3. It can spread through respiratory droplets.
4. Antibiotics are the primary treatment for H1N1 infection.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 4 only
(d) 1, 3 and 4

Answer: (a) 1 and 3 only

Explanation: H1N1 is a viral infection caused by Influenza A. Therefore, antibiotics do not directly treat it.

Q2. H1N1 influenza is associated with which one of the following?

(a) Influenza A
(b) Influenza B only
(c) Coronavirus
(d) Adenovirus

Answer: (a) Influenza A

Explanation: H1N1 represents a subtype of Influenza A virus.

Q3. With reference to H1N1 influenza, consider the following statements:

1. It can cause respiratory illness.
2. RT-PCR can be used for laboratory confirmation.
3. Vaccination can help prevent influenza infection.
4. It is transmitted exclusively through contaminated food.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(b) 1 and 4 only
(c) 2 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer: (a) 1, 2 and 3 only