How do I know if it’s the novel H1N1 strain?

Unless your doctor orders a test, you won’t. That test, which involves a swab of nasal secretions, isn’t routinely conducted. Most likely, if your doctor thinks you have the flu, you will be sent home with advice on care.

In some cases, however, doctors will want a more precise diagnosis, which helps inform public health officials about outbreaks. A flu test is also sometimes given to people at risk of becoming very sick, such as hospitalized patients, infants and those with underlying health conditions. Health care workers may also receive a flu test.

In general, it’s not necessary for you to know whether your flu is H1N1 or a seasonal strain. They are treated similarly and have similar effects, although this H1N1 strain seems to be transmitted especially easily among children and young adults.

Q&A sample from: http://www.inforum.com