Swine flu

What is Swine flu?

Swine flu is the common name given to a new strain of influenza (flu). It is called swine flu because it is thought to have originated in pigs, but this is not certain.

People with swine flu typically have a fever or high temperature (over 38°C) and may also have aching muscles, sore throat and/or a dry cough (see Symptoms). In other words, the symptoms are very similar to seasonal (regular) flu. Most people recover within a week, even without special treatment.

If you or a member of your family has a fever or high temperature (over 38°C/100.4°F) and two or more of the following symptoms, you may have swine flu:

• unusual tiredness
• headache
• runny nose
• sore throat
• shortness of breath or cough
• loss of appetite
• aching muscles
• diarrhoea or vomiting

Checking symptoms

It makes sense to have a working thermometer at home, as an increase in temperature is one of the main symptoms. If you are unsure how to use a thermometer, advice is available on NHS Choices at: www.nhs.uk

If you are still concerned you may have swine flu call your GP directly, particularly if:

• you have a serious existing illness that weakens your immune system, such as cancer
• you are pregnant
• you have a sick child under one
• your condition suddenly gets much worse or
• your condition is still getting worse after seven days (five for a child)

Everyone can take simple measures to prevent infection. In particular covering the nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing and washing hands regularly.

The Department of Health has started a public health information campaign – following Catch It, Bin It, Kill It, as well as door drops to all houses in the UK and messaging at airports and railway stations. The national recorded information line is operating: 0800 1 513 513.

Swine flu vaccine

The swine flu vaccination programme began on 21 October 2009. The vaccine has been given to those at the greatest risk first.

The following groups were prioritised for vaccination, in this order:

Phase 1

• People aged between six months and 65 years who usually get the seasonal flu jab.
• All pregnant women.
• People who live with those whose immune systems are compromised, such as cancer patients or people with HIV/AIDS.
• People aged 65 and over in the seasonal flu vaccine at-risk groups.

Phase 2

• Young children aged over six months and under five years.

The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation has advised that only those in the initial clinical at-risk groups (phase 1) should continue to be vaccinated over the coming summer.

Vaccination for people travelling to the Southern Hemisphere

People travelling to Southern Hemisphere countries during their influenza season may benefit from receiving the monovalent H1N1 vaccine. Information on the Southern Hemisphere flu season is available from the National Travel Health Network and Centre.  This website provides information on current influenza activity.

The swine flu vaccine can be given to reduce the risk of people travelling to these countries catching swine flu whilst abroad and bringing the virus back. Travellers to the Southern Hemisphere are advised to contact their local GP surgery for further advice.

Further information can be found at www.hpa.org.uk or NHS Choices or www.nhs.uk