The pandemic H1N1 flu (originally called swine flu) is a respiratory infection. It has spread to humans and has reached the level of a pandemic. A pandemic is a worldwide outbreak. Here is more information on the pandemic H1N1 flu:

• Pandemic H1N1 flu

The United States Food and Drug Administration has approved a vaccine against the pandemic H1N1 flu. Here is more information about the vaccine:

• Overview
• Questions and Answers

Want to learn more about vaccines in general? Learn more here:

• What Are Vaccines?

Drugs that fight the flu

Experts are preparing for the effects of the pandemic H1N1 flu. Fortunately, in the United States, the pandemic H1N1 virus has caused symptoms no worse than the typical seasonal flu. Nevertheless, as the weather turns cold and the virus increases its activity, your doctor may recommend antiviral medicines.

Antiviral medicines may be helpful in treating the pandemic H1N1 flu. But unless you are in a high-risk group or have a severe illness, you may not need them. Check with your doctor. Antiviral medicines used to treat the pandemic H1N1 flu include: