Causes
In what environment does the virus thrive?
The virus thrives in cold, dry weather, which is why flu season typically occurs in the fall and winter in temperate regions.
What is the H1N1 influenza pandemic?
This pandemic was declared a Phase 6 (highest level) by the WHO in June 2009.
This pandemic reminded us of the importance of science-based preparedness plans.
Covid-19
Which Canadian province had over 4,000 confirmed H1N1 cases by August 2009?
Ontario
Who is more susceptible to contracting and spreading H1N1?
Children, older adults, and those with compromised immunity
This term is often used to refer to H1N1 due to its genetic similarity to strains found in pigs
What is “swine flu”?
Improving this system can help detect and prevent future pandemics
global health surveillance
What age group accounted for over half of Ontario’s cases?
individuals under 20 years old
In what kind of communities are economic pressure felt the most in terms of virus exposure
Lower-income communities and countries
Who are individuals under 20 years old?
The age group that was disproportionately affected by H1N1 in Ontario.
These two key areas must be addressed to reduce the health impact on low-income communities
healthcare access and equitable vaccine distribution
Why did low-income communities face higher hospitalization rates during H1N1?
limited access to healthcare and higher rates of pre-existing conditions
True or False?
Children, in particular, transmit the virus for longer durations than adults
True!
Children, especially those under the age of five, tend to shed the influenza virus for a longer period compared to adults. While adults typically shed the virus for about 5–7 days after symptoms begin, children can continue shedding it for up to 10 days or more. (Burch, 2024)
What are the two main methods H1N1 is transmitted
respiratory droplets and surface contact
What role does prior immunity play in flu transmission?
What is that people without prior immunity are more likely to be infected and spread the virus?
Approximately how many deaths occurred globally from H1N1 in its first year?
151,700 to 575,400