There are plenty of questions people are asking about swine flu because of all of the media coverage and growing panic.

What is swine flu?

Influenza A (H1N1) also known as the swine flu is highly contagious. It has many of the same symptoms as seasonal influenza outbreaks such as body aches, chills, cough, fatigue, fever, headache, runny nose and sore throat.

Why is it called swine flu?

The H1N1 virus is called swine flu because pigs can also get infected with the same virus. Usually viruses that affect pigs do not infect humans but this particular virus has.

Is the swine flu contagious and how does it spread?

The swine flu is highly contagious, spreading from human to human through the air and the respiratory tract. When individuals who have swine flu cough or sneeze droplets containing the virus are spread in the air and other people in the area can breathe in the droplets that contain the virus. Droplets can also fall onto surfaces where people will then touch the surface and touch their eyes, nose or mouth causing the virus to enter into their system.

Are there people who are at high risk for the swine flu?

Certain individuals are at higher risk of serious influenza-related medical complications than others. People who fall into this higher risk category for swine flu include individuals under age 4, those who are age 65 or older, those with chronic medical conditions, and also those women who are pregnant.

Can swine flu develop as a result of eating or preparing pork?

You cannot contract swine flu just from eating or preparing pork. The swine flu virus is not spread through consuming or preparing pig meat.

Can you get swine flu by drinking contaminated water?

At the present time there are no human cases of swine flu that were caused by exposure to influenza-contaminated drinking water.

What can I do to safeguard my family from getting the swine flu?

There are some preventative measures individuals can take to reduce the chance of getting swine flu including:

* Washing your hands frequently especially after coughing, sneezing and before eating

* Stay away from anyone exhibiting any signs or symptoms of illness

* Get plenty of sleep

* Stay physically active

* Manage your stress levels

* Eat nutritious foods

* Drink plenty of water

* Avoid surfaces that may be contaminated with swine flu virus

What are the surfaces most likely to be contaminated with the swine flu virus?

Surfaces such as a desktop, table, school desk, handrails, countertop, wall, and pretty much any hard surface where air-borne droplets can fall.

What is the best hand-washing technique to prevent the spread of the swine flu?

Wash with warm water and soap or use alcohol-based hand cleanser. When washing with soap and water you should wash for 15 to 20 seconds. The alcohol-based cleansers are excellent for when soap and water are not available or convenient. Alcohol-based cleansers can be found in bottles of gel or in container of wipes. You can buy these alcohol-based cleansers in most grocery stores and drug stores.