HSI is contagious and is spreading easily between people. Being in close contact (e.g. within a metre) with an infected person while they are talking, coughing or sneezing puts you at risk of becoming infected. Virus-containing droplets can land on the surfaces of the mouth, nose and throat of people close by. The virus may also be spread through contact with infectious respiratory secretions on the hands of an infected person or other objects and surfaces. People with HSI should be considered potentially contagious as long as they are symptomatic and possibly for up to seven (7) days following the onset of illness. Children, especially younger children, might potentially be contagious for longer periods.

Masks may be of benefit in "crowded settings" or for people who are in "close contact" with infected persons, defined as 1 meter or less by the World Health Organization and 6 feet or less by the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Like seasonal flu, HSI in humans can vary in severity from mild to severe. Those most at risk of serious illness include pregnant women, Indigenous Australians, and people with respiratory disease (asthma, COPD), heart disease, diabetes, renal disease, morbid obesity and immunosuppressant.



To protect you and your family, follow proactive measures:
Stay home when you are sick;
Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol based hand gel;
Wash your hands prior to touching your eyes, nose and mouth;
When coughing or sneezing, cover your mouth and nose with disposable tissues which should be disposed of immediately;
Don't share items such as cigarettes, glasses or cups, lipstick, toys or anything which could be contaminated with respiratory secretions;
Maintain at least one metre distance from people who have flu-like symptoms such as coughing or sneezing;

Consult your doctor if you have a cough and fever and follow their instructions, including taking medicine as prescribed; Balanced diet with fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein, sufficient sleep, regular exercise, and avoiding crowds. So far most people who have contracted the new A (H1N1) virus have experienced influenza-like symptoms and recovered without antiviral treatment.