What is Swine Flu? How Can You Prevent Infection?

Here are some helpful answers from WebMD to common questions that are being asked about this scary new illness.

What is The Swine Flu?

Like people, pigs can get influenza (flu), but swine flu viruses aren't the same as human flu viruses. Swine flu doesn't often infect people, and the rare human cases that have occurred in the past have mainly affected people who had direct contact with pigs. But the current swine flu outbreak is different. It's caused by a new swine flu virus that has spread from person to person -- and it's happening among people who haven't had any contact with pigs.

How Can I Prevent Infection?

The CDC Recommends The Following:

*Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. Or use an alcohol-based hand cleaner.
*Avoid close contact with sick people.
*Avoid touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.

To read more about the Swine Flu on WebMD click here