Swine flu (which is often referred to as the H1N1 Virus) is not a new virus, although recently it has become more hazardous. This year a new strain of the virus appeared and, unlike earlier strains, became infectious of humans. How is the swine flu transmitted? This can happen by touching an object that has been sneezed at or touched by a person who has been infected with the virus.
Although the mortality rate has been very low, and in fact, it is probable that a vaccine will be released within the next few months, there is a great concern that the virus will mutate, not only rendering the treatment ineffective, but also potentially becoming far more dangerous.
The symptoms of swine flu resemble standard influenza: high fever, sore throat, fatigue and chills. Consequently, it is possible many people have been infected and overcame this disease and are unaware of it. Although some people with healthy immune systems have died, the people most susceptible are those with compromised immune systems as well as elderly or children.
The best way to prevent swine flu is basically identical to avoiding any virus: wash your hands with soap whenever you can, sanitize them, try and avoid places where infected people have been reported. It is also necessary to cook any infected pork meat for it to not be infectious anymore (though ideally it should not be eaten at all).
As for treatments, as mentioned, a vaccine should be available soon. In the meanwhile, if any swine flu symtoms are in fact apparent and swine flu is confirmed, the CDC suggests Tamiflu or Relezna, though it is likely that most infected people will not require any treatment at all.