How Do You get the H1N1 Swine Flu?
Can I get infected with the H1N1 swine flu virus from eating or preparing pork?
No. The H1N1 Swine flu viruses are not spread by food. You cannot get infected with the HIN1 Swine flu virus from eating pork or pork related products. Eating properly handled and cooked pork products is safe.
Tap water that has been treated by conventional disinfection processes does not likely pose a risk for transmission of influenza viruses. Current drinking water treatment regulations provide a high degree of protection from viruses. No research has been completed on the susceptibility of the H1N1 Swine flu virus to conventional drinking water treatment processes. However, recent studies have demonstrated that free chlorine levels typically used in drinking water treatment are adequate to inactivate highly pathogenic H5N1 avian (Bird Flu) influenza. It is likely that other influenza viruses such as the H1N1 Swine flu would also be similarly inactivated by chlorination. To date, there have been no documented human cases of influenza caused by exposure to influenza-contaminated drinking water.
Influenza viruses infect the human upper respiratory tract. There has never been a documented case of influenza virus infection associated with water exposure. Recreational water that has been treated at the Center for Disease Control recommended disinfectant levels does not likely pose a risk for transmission of influenza viruses. No research has been completed on the susceptibility of the H1N1 Swine flu virus to chlorine and other disinfectants used in swimming pools, spas, water parks, interactive fountains, and other treated recreational venues. However, recent studies have demonstrated that free chlorine levels recommended by the Center for Disease Control are adequate to disinfect avian influenza A (H5N1 Bird flu) virus. It is likely that other influenza viruses such as the H1N1 Swine flu virus would also be similarly disinfected by chlorine.
Yes, recreational water venues are no different than any other group setting. The spread of this the H1N1 Swine flu is thought to be happening in the same way that seasonal flu spreads. Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing of people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.
