Download Swine Flu Update, 17 July 2009

Pandemic/Swine Flu
Update No 2, 27 July 2009
Swine flu (swine influenza) is a type of influenza (flu) that usually affects pigs. It can also be
transmitted to humans, and from human to human. It is now in a pandemic stage where many people
are affected all over the world. It causes flu-like symptoms such as fever and other symptoms
(detailed below). Most people fully recover within a few days but serious complications develop in
some people. People with suspected swine flu should contact an NHS Helpline or their GP but
should avoid going to their GP or hospital as this will reduce the risk of the infection spreading.
What is swine flu?
Swine flu is a type of flu (influenza). It usually affects pigs but it can also affect humans. The
virus can be transmitted from human-to-human. Before spring 2009, the virus rarely passed from
human to human.
A new strain of the swine influenza virus called influenza H1N1v that spreads easily from humanto-human emerged in Mexico in spring 2009. Most cases of flu caused by this new strain were
initially in Mexico. However, it has now spread as to affect people in other countries, including the
UK. When a strain of influenza spreads easily between humans and causes outbreaks in several
countries, this is referred to as a pandemic. Influenza pandemics, such as the one caused by the
H1N1 virus, must be taken seriously because of their capacity to spread rapidly to every country in
the world
What are the symptoms of swine flu?
The symptoms are similar to symptoms of 'ordinary' flu. Typically, people with swine flu have a
high temperature (38°C or greater). They also have at least two of the following symptoms: cough,
sore throat, headache, runny nose, aches and pains, vomiting or diarrhoea. These symptoms usually
last for a few days and then completely resolve. Swine flu has most commonly affected younger
people rather than the elderly.
What are the possible complications of swine flu?
Initial experience with this virus suggests that most people fully recover. However, complications
occur in some people and they can be serious and life-threatening. The most serious complication is
pneumonia (lung infection) which may develop and may be fatal.
How is swine flu diagnosed?
Swabs are no longer being taken to confirm swine flu. People are now being diagnosed and treated
depending on their symptoms. If you are suffering from flu like illness you should contact the
National Pandemic Flu Service on 0800 151 3100 or via the website, www.direct.gov.uk/pandemicflu.
For general information telephone 0800 151 3513.
What is the treatment of swine flu?
If it is suspected that you have swine flu then you will be given an antiviral medication (such as
Tamiflu®) to start straight away. Unless you become very ill you will be treated at home. This will
reduce the risk of the virus spreading to other people.
Antiviral medication (for example, Tamiflu®) has been shown to have limited benefit, it does not
kill the virus but interferes with the way the virus multiplies. Therefore, antiviral medication does
not cure flu, or offer long term protection against flu. But, it may reduce the severity and duration
of symptoms and may prevent complications. Usually, treatment is taken for five days.
Pregnant women are usually given Relenza®, which is an alternative to Tamiflu®. As this drug is
inhaled it means that less of the drug is absorbed into the blood stream so is safer to take in
pregnancy.
If you are breast-feeding then you can still take an antiviral drug.
Treatment with antiviral medication should start as soon as possible, ideally within 12-48 hours of
the onset of symptoms. Beyond 48 hours there is no advantage in taking antiviral medication. The
prescription for the antiviral medication should be collected for you by a healthy friend or relative
from a collection point advised by your GP.
As with other flu-like illnesses, paracetamol and/or ibuprofen will lower your temperature, and also
ease aches and pains.
How can swine flu be prevented?
People with symptoms of flu should stay at home until they feel better. General hygiene is
important to reduce the spread of swine flu (and other diseases). This includes:
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Covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, using a tissue when possible.
Disposing of tissues promptly.
Washing your hands frequently with soap and water.
Cleaning hard surfaces (such as door handles and work surfaces) frequently.
Ensuring children also follow this advice.
It is thought that the flu vaccine may offer some protection against swine flu. Further tests are
being done to confirm this. Development of a vaccine for swine flu is underway.
Should I have a supply of Tamiflu® just in case I develop flu?
This is not necessary and is not recommended. Antiviral medication is only given to people who have
symptoms suggestive of swine flu. Using Tamiflu® when it is not necessary may lead to the virus
becoming resistant to this medication. This may mean that Tamiflu® may not work when it is
needed to in people with proven swine flu.
The Health Protection Agency does not advise the use of antiviral medication as a precautionary
measure when travelling to countries affected by swine flu.
Further help and advice
NHS Direct symptom checker: www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk/Sat/MiniSAT/Topics/SwineFlu/SwineFlu.aspx
NHS Direct in England - Tel: 0845 4647 Web: www.nhs.uk
NHS 24 in Scotland - Tel: 08454 24 24 24 Web: www.nhs24.com
NHS Direct Wales - Tel: 0845 4647 Web: www.nhsdirect.wales.nhs.uk
In Northern Ireland - Tel: 0800 0514 142 Web: www.dhsspsni.gov.uk
RTG/27.7.09