QUICK FACTS YOU NEED TO KIWhat is Swine influenza (swine flu)? A highly contagious acute respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A (H1N1) influenza viruses regularly occurring in pigs. Can people get it? In the past, people normally do not get swine flu, but human infections has happen. This new strain of virus detected in Mexico can spread between people. Currently the number of suspected swine flu cases in Mexico has risen to 1614 cases. Can I get swine influenza from eating or preparing pork? No. You cannot get swine influenza from eating properly handled and cooked pork or pork products.How does it spread? It spreads from person-to-person (like a normal flu) through touching something with flu virus on it (from droplets from a cough or sneeze) and then touching your mouth or nose. How long can viruses live outside the body? Some viruses and bacteria can live 2 hours or longer on common surfaces like cafeteria tables, doorknobs and desks. How long can someone with the flu infect someone else? Infected people can infect others beginning 1 day before symptoms develop and up to 7 or more days after becoming sick. Children, especially younger children, might potentially be contagious for longer periods.