SYMPTOMS OF SWINE FLU

Swine flu symptoms

What is swine flu?

Swine flu is one of several strains of flu which are now considered to be seasonal flu. The official name for swine flu is Influenza A virus subtype H1N1.

This strain of flu, like other strains, can be serious for some people in at-risk groups.

Swine flu got its name because the first outbreaks mainly affected people who had direct contact with pigs.

What's the difference between swine flu and seasonal flu?

Initially, swine flu outbreak was treated separately from the normal seasonal flu. Now for many people, swine flu is the strain of flu they catch.

The symptoms of swine flu are similar to those of other strains of seasonal flu:

• Temperature over 38C/100.4F
• Unusual tiredness
• Headache
• Runny nose
• Sore throat
• Shortness of breath or cough
• Loss of appetite
• Aching muscles
• Diarrhoea
• Vomiting

Swine flu protection is now built in to the seasonal flu jab or vaccination.

The effects of swine flu are usually mild, but some people in at-risk groups who have not had the flu vaccination are more at risk of serious illness.

When flu symptoms develop, stay at home and have plenty of rest. Use age-appropriate over-the-counter painkillers.

Seek medical advice if you have concerns, or if you:

• Have a serious underlying illness, such as diabetes, neurological conditions, lung disease, heart disease, liver or kidney disease
• Are pregnant
• Are having asthma treatment
• Are over 65.