Swine influenza is a contagious respiratory disease that normally only affects pigs. It is commonly caused by H1N1 strains of swine influenza A virus. However, other strains, such as H1N2, H3N1 and H3N2 also circulate in pigs. While it is not usual for people to get swine flu, human infections do occasionally happen, mainly after close contact with infected pigs.
During March/April 2009, a new strain of swine influenza virus emerged in Mexico, and started to cause illness in humans. The World Health Organisation says that this new strain of influenza, called influenza A (H1N1), can spread from person to person. Experts around the world are working closely with the World Health Organisation to help determine what risk this virus poses to the public. There is some concern that this new strain could cause a human flu pandemic (see Pandemic flu FAQs).
Click here for the latest situation update from the World Health Organisation.
How does swine flu spread amongst pigs?
Pigs can get swine flu if they inhale respiratory droplets expelled by an infected pig. They can also get infected through direct or indirect contact with an infected pig.
What symptoms do infected pigs show?
Signs of swine influenza in pigs can include dullness, fever, coughing and breathlessness. Some infected pigs (about 1 to 4 %) may die, but most pigs recover rapidly.
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