Swine Flu
Statistics
Swine flu has reached epidemic proportions in some areas of the world this year, affecting more than 702,000 people and causing more than 11,000 deaths worldwide. In the U.K the infection has been controlled fairly effectively so far and an immunisation programme is now in place. China and Mexico have been worst affected by the pandemic with vast numbers of people affected by the virus.
What is swine flu?
Swine flu is a form of the influenza or flu virus, it is believed to have originated in pigs, hence the name swine flu. The first case was identified in Mexico in April 2009. Swine flu has many of the same symptoms as normal flu although they are more exaggerated and can last for a longer period of time. Swine flu in humans is attributed to the H1N1 strain of the virus.
What are the symptoms of swine flu?
Common symptoms include:
- Fatigue and lethargy
- High temperature (over 30 degrees)
- Sore throat
- Runny nose
- Muscle aches and stiffness
- Nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea
- Cough or trouble breathing
- Loss of appetite
If you are suffering from these symptoms you should contact the National Pandemic Flu Service online or by telephone; this service will assess your condition and provide a number which will entitle you to collect medication from a local collection point.
Who is most at risk?
Babies, young children, pregnant women, the elderly and those who suffer from illnesses such as asthma and serious pre-existing conditions are most at risk from contracting swine flu.
The swine flu vaccination
The swine flu vaccination programme is now up and running in the U.K. Currently, the most vulnerable groups are being targeted; babies and young children, all pregnant women, the elderly and those who suffer from asthma, chronic heart, liver, kidney or lung disease or an impaired immune system will be invited to participate in the immunisation programme. People who work in a health care setting will also be offered the injection.
Preventing the spread of swine flu
If you are suffering from swine flu try to keep yourself away from other people and do not go to densely populate areas. Make sure you cover your mouth when you sneeze and then wash your hands thoroughly. Do not go into work if you have swine flu and keep infected children away from school until they have recovered.