Swine flu is a contagious respiratory disease caused by a type of influenza virus that normally affects pigs. It is also known as hog flu, pig flu, and pig influenza. The disease was first identified in pigs in 1930, but it was not until 2009 that a new strain of the virus emerged and caused an outbreak in humans.
History of Swine Flu
Swine flu first appeared in 1930 when a strain of influenza virus was identified in pigs in the United States. Since then, the virus has been circulating among pigs and has been responsible for several major outbreaks in pigs.
In 1976, a similar strain of the virus was identified in humans and was responsible for an outbreak in New Jersey. The virus was contained and did not spread further.
2009 Outbreak
In 2009, a new strain of the virus emerged, and it was responsible for a global outbreak of swine flu. This strain was first identified in Mexico and quickly spread to the United States and other parts of the world. The World Health Organization declared the outbreak a pandemic due to its rapid spread.
Why is it Called Swine Flu?
The virus responsible for the 2009 outbreak was an influenza A virus, which is a type of virus that normally affects pigs. The virus is also referred to as H1N1, which is the scientific name for the strain. Because the virus is a strain of influenza that normally affects pigs, it is commonly referred to as swine flu.