A respiratory disease caused by type A influenza virus that regularly causes outbreaks of influenza among pigs. The virus can be transferred to people who have close contact with infected pigs, such as in pig barns and livestock exhibits housing pigs at fairs. Person-to-person transmission of swine flu can also occur, mainly through the coughing or sneezing of people infected with the influenza virus. People may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose. The symptoms of swine flu in people are generally similar to those of regular human seasonal flu and may include fever, lethargy, lack of appetite and coughing. Some people with swine flu also have reported runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Most people recover in a few days to less than two weeks. People age 65 years and older, people of any age with chronic medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease), pregnant women, and young children are more likely to get complications from influenza.
Taxonomy Code: YF-3000.4200-840
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