Swine Flu: What You Should Know

Up until earlier this year, no one had even heard of swine flu. Now, as it's swept through at least 70 countries, including the United States, swine flu has become part of our collective consciousness. As a result of the global spread of the virus, the World Health Organization (WHO) recently raised the worldwide pandemic alert level of swine flu to Phase 6, signalling that a global pandemic is underway.

Here you'll find key information on swine flu including up-to-the minute news updates as well as important guidelines to help keep you and your family safe from this potentially deadly virus.

FAQs

Pandemic Alert Level



According to the World Health Organization, the current phase of pandemic alert is Level 6.

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Outbreak Map


View an interactive map to see the most highly affected areas

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Latest Swine Flu News

A $40 Million Suit

The widow of a New York City school administrator who became the first person in the city to die of swine flu plans to file a $40 million wrongful death lawsuit against the city. Read More

The Latest on School Closures

U.S. guidelines for the pandemic of H1N1 swine flu released on Friday discourage the early closure of schools, unless the virus becomes worse. Read More

The Obesity Effect

Obesity does not pose an extra risk of severe disease or death for people infected with the new pandemic strain of H1N1 swine flu, a U.S health official has said. Read More

Swine flu striking pregnant women hard: CDC study

Swine Flu Videos

The Danger May Not Be Over

As federal officers brace for a fall surge of swine flu, NBC's Chief Science Correspondent reports if this calls for vaccinations for everyone.

One Victim's Story

Hear the story of one woman who died from swine flu after giving birth to her child.

Exclusive Coverage from QualityHealth

Going Back to School During Swine Flu Season

Learning about the swine flu virus was scary enough this past spring, when it made headlines for the first time. The warm summer weather has given the nation a reprieve in terms of new cases diagnosed, but health experts say that the virus is poised for an aggressive comeback in the fall, just when children will be settling back into their school routines. How can you keep your child safe? Learn More

Is it Swine Flu or Allergies?

If you aren't sure how to differentiate between common allergy symptoms and signs that you could have the swine flu, you're in good company. But while you may not be sure which it is, the experts say that there are some telltale signs that can help you determine if you really do have swine flu. Learn More

4 Surprising Swine Flu Facts and Theories