In�uenza A (H1N1-2009) is a new strain of in�uenza virus that spreads easily from human to human. More than 40 countries have already reported cases. Although the virus is milder than previously feared,it is still evolving.

WHY WE CANNOT LET OUR GUARD DOWN Its rate of spread and mortality appear to be higher than those of seasonal �u (It is estimated that the regular seasonal �u is associated with about 600 deaths in Singapore each year). The next wave may be both contagious and more severe, and lead to a global pandemic �u outbreak.

VIGILANCE REMAINS IMPORTANTAll of us must remain alert and do our part to prevent the spread of the virus within the community.Always maintain a high standard of public and personal hygiene, and be socially responsible. If you are unwell, rest at home and wear a mask if on the way to see a doctor. This will help to protect ourselves, our families and our neighbours and contacts.If you think you are infected with this novel �u virus, having been to a�ected areas, do call 993 for a dedicated ambulance service which will bring you to Tan Tock Seng Hospital to be assessed.

SIMPLE PREVENTION TIPSWash your hands regularly and thoroughly with soap and water, especially before touching your eyes, nose or mouth;

Turn quickly away from anyone near you if you are about to cough or sneeze, and do not cough or sneeze at him/her;

Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Dispose of the tissue properly in the dust bin after use;

Avoid crowded places if you are unwell and wear a surgical mask to cover your nose and mouth;

Stay home from work or schoolwhen you are sick; and

Use a serving spoon when sharing food at meal times.

Refrain from going to a�ected areas.But if you must, practise personal hygiene and see a doctor if you fall ill overseas.

WHATYOU NEEDTO KNOW

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Also, leading a healthy lifestyle helps to build up your immunity and protects you against infection.

Eat a balanced diet, including plentyof fruit and vegetables.Be active. Do 30 minutes of physicalactivity at least 5 days a week. Learn to relax and have enoughsleep and rest.Do not smoke.

How do humans get infected?Like other �u viruses, the In�uenza A (H1N1-2009) virus is spread mainly through people with �u, coughing or sneezing. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with �u viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose. What are the symptoms of In�uenza A (H1N1-2009) in humans?

Like the regular seasonal �u, common symptoms are high fever, with cough, sore throat, runny nose, muscle ache and tiredness. Should I vaccinate myself against In�uenza A (H1N1-2009) with Tami�u?No. There is currently no vaccine available against In�uenza A (H1N1-2009). Tami�u is not a vaccine.It is used mainly to treat people with the disease. Inappropriate use may cause resistance to Tami�u when you really need it. What about getting the normal �u jab? It is not known whether the current seasonal �u vaccine protects against the novel In�uenza A (H1N1-2009) strain.Yearly vaccination is however recommended for groups at higher risk of complications of in�uenza, such as – Persons aged 65 years and older;– Children aged 6 months to 5 years;– Adults and children who have chronic diseases such as asthma, diabetes, or kidney failure on dialysis.– Women in the second or third trimester of pregnancy. Is it safe to visit countries with cases of In�uenza A (H1N1-2009)?You are advised to avoid non-essential travel to a�ected areas*. If you have to travel to such areas, be vigilant and maintain a high standard of personal hygiene at all times. Should you fall ill while overseas, do see a doctor as soon as possible and refrain from travelling until you are certi�ed �t by the doctor. What should I do if I suspect I have In�uenza A (H1N1-2009) after returning to Singapore?If you develop �u symptoms after returning to Singapore, consult your doctor as soon as possible and inform him of your travel history. If you have returned from an a�ected area, you are advised to monitor your health carefully for 7 days and if you develop symptoms such as fever (>38°C ), cough, sore throat, or runny nose, please call 993 for a dedicated ambulance service which will bringyou to Tan Tock Seng Hospital.* A�ected areas are areas with evidence of community transmission of In�uenza A (H1N1-2009). Please refer to the MOH website for the updated list of a�ected areas.

For public enquiries,callMinistry of Health Hotlineat 1800-333 9999, or log on:www.moh.gov.sg

High fever

Muscleache

Tiredness

Runny nose

Cough

Sore throat

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