True or False: The H1N1 flu is a food-borne illness, not a respiratory illness.

The statement is false because the H1N1 flu, commonly known as swine flu, is indeed a respiratory illness, not a food-borne illness. H1N1 is caused by the H1N1 influenza virus, which primarily spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. It can also spread by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes.

Food-borne illnesses are typically caused by consuming contaminated food or water, leading to gastrointestinal symptoms rather than respiratory symptoms. Although H1N1 is associated with pigs, and there are zoonotic aspects of the illness, it does not imply that it spreads through food. Understanding the transmission route of H1N1 is essential for preventing its spread, highlighting why the correct answer is that it is false.