Today was my first day back from vacation and, with all the news stories circulating right now, it’s not surprising that there were calls with questions about Swine Flu. Here’s what we know as of now.

Swine flu, or Swine Influenza, is caused by the Influenza type A virus found in pigs and known as the H1N1 subtype. Until now, human infection has been uncommon, with most cases involving humans being exposed to infected pigs. Human to human transmission has previously been rare, with a potential single case in 1988. As of today, however, there have been about 70 confirmed cases internationally, 40 of which have been in the United States. In Mexico, although there have been fewer confirmed cases, it is suspected that this outbreak has caused over 1,000 people to become sick, with at least 100 deaths.

Symptoms of swine flu are similar to those of regular influenza, and can include fever, cough, sore throat, chills, fatigue and body aches. Gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea can be present as well. The diagnosis is made by analyzing a respiratory specimen, which is generally collected within 4 to 5 days after the onset of illness.

You cannot get swine flu from eating or preparing pork.

The current strain of swine flu appears to be sensitive to the newer anti-viral medications, like oseltamivir (Tamiflu), but resistant to the older drugs amantadine and rimantadine. The CDC is recommending treating those suspected with swine flu with the first two drugs within two days of noticing symptoms, specifically those with known contacts as well as symptoms or those with recent or upcoming travel to areas of known outbreak.

Of course, common-sense infection control techniques apply. These include frequent hand washing, using a tissue to cover your nose and mouth when sneezing, avoiding close contact with those demonstrating symptoms, and avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

This event may get worse rapidly, and considering that most of the dead were previously healthy adults between the ages fo 25 and 45, has the real potential to become a pandemic.

For a general overview, see the following CDC links:

Swine Flu and You
Key Facts
Jim Macdonald and the Making Light blog sums up the science

And for current updates:

Swine Influenza press briefings
Massachusetts Department of Public Health