What is 2009 H1N1 flu?
2009 H1N1 flu is a new influenza virus causing illness in people. Most people do not have immunity to this virus, so it spreads quickly. People with the flu spread the virus through coughing or sneez¬ing near others. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their eyes, mouth, or nose. Those currently at higher risk of serious flu-related complica¬tions from 2009 H1N1 flu include children younger than five years old, pregnant women, people of any age with certain chronic medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease), adults and children who have a weak immune system, residents of nursing homes and other chronic-care facilities and persons aged 65 years or older. See http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/qa.htm for more information about high risk groups.
