The year 2009 saw an outbreak of a new strain of H1N1 influenza which soon reached such proportions as to be declared a ”pandemic” or a global infection. It was first seen in Mexico which was virtually shut down as a precaution. Also known as Swine Flu because of elements of swine flu virus – apart from avian and human flu viruses – it had nothing to do with consumption of pork or allied products. Symptoms of H1N1 are sore throat, mild fever, headache, nausea, muscle and joint pain etc. The most viulnerable are  those with respiratory problems, diabetics, the very young and the aged, the pregnant. Even the healthy are affected by respiratory problems and viral pneumonia. Infection is spread by “respiratory droplets” such as nasal secretions and those with symptoms are advised to stay at home. Better personal hygiene has also been stressed as a means of reducing possibility of infection. While many recover without medical aid and  rest over time, serious infections have to be treated with anti-virals.
High mortality at the level of 13000 deaths was reported worldwide. USA alone had more than 9000 deaths. The infection seems to have abated now with fewer reports of this disease.