Influenza A virus subtype H1N1

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For the 1918 pandemic of Influenza A(H1N1), see 1918 flu pandemic.
For the current pandemic of Influenza A(H1N1), see 2009 flu pandemic.
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• A/H1N1
subtype

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Influenza A virus subtype H1N1, also known as A(H1N1), is a subtype of

influenzavirus A and the most common cause of influenza (flu) in humans. Some strains
of H1N1 are endemic in humans and cause a small fraction of all influenza-like illness
and a large fraction of all seasonal influenza. H1N1 strains caused roughly half of all
human flu infections in 2006.[1] Other strains of H1N1 are endemic in pigs (swine
influenza) and in birds (avian influenza).

In June 2009, WHO declared that flu due to a new strain of swine-origin H1N1 was
responsible for the 2009 flu pandemic. This strain is commonly called "swine flu".
Nomenclature

The various types of influenza viruses in humans. Solid squares show the appearance of a
new strain, causing recurring influenza pandemics. Broken lines indicate uncertain strain
identifications.[2]

Influenza A virus strains are categorized according to two proteins found on the surface
of the virus: hemagglutinin (H) and neuraminidase (N). All influenza A viruses contain
hemagglutinin and neuraminidase, but the structure of these proteins differ from strain to
strain due to rapid genetic mutation in the viral genome.

Influenza A virus strains are assigned an H number and an N number based on which
forms of these two proteins the strain contains. There are 16 H and 9 N subtypes known
in birds, but only H 1, 2 and 3, and N 1 and 2 are commonly found in humans.[3]
IN

HEA
LTH
1. beaker - a liquid-measuring container
2. burette - measures volume of solution
3. clay triangle - a wire frame with porcelain used to support a crucible
4. wire gauze - used to spread heat of a burner flame
5. test tube - used as holder of small amount of solution
6. forceps - holds or pick up small objects
7. graduated cylinder - measures approximate volume of liquids
8. graduated pipette - measures solution volumes
9. condenser - used in distillation
10. crucible - used to heat a small amount of a solid substance at a very high
temperature
11. funnel - used to transfer solids and liquids without spilling
12. thermometer - measures temperature
13. balance - measures mass of material
14. pH meter - measures acidity of solutions
15. centrifuge - separates materials of varying density