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Swine Flu: Questions and Answers
What is swine flu?
Swine influenza (flu) is a respiratory disease (a condition which affects the breathing) caused by
type A flu viruses. Swine flu occurs in wild birds, pigs, poultry, horses and humans.
People don’t normally get swine flu, but human infections can happen and can spread from
person to person. Prior to 2009 since 1958 a total of 17 cases had been reported in Europe.
More recently, swine flu A (H1N1) viruses have occurred in humans in Scotland.
Is the H1N1 swine flu virus the same as human H1N1 viruses?
No. The 2009 Influenza A H1N1 (swine flu) viruses are antigenically very different from human
H1N1 viruses and, therefore, vaccines for human seasonal flu would not provide protection from
Influenza A (H1N1) (swine flu) viruses.
Is this Swine Flu virus contagious? Can I catch it?
Yes. This novel Influenza A (H1N1) (swine flu) virus is contagious and can be spread between
people.
General hygiene can help to reduce transmission of all viruses, including the swine flu virus.
This includes:
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Covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, using a tissue when
possible.
Disposing of dirty tissues promptly and carefully.
Maintaining good basic hygiene, for example washing hands frequently with soap and
water to reduce the spread of the virus from your hands to your face or to other people.
Cleaning hard surfaces (such as door handles) frequently using a normal cleaning
product.
What are the symptoms of swine flu?
Patients with swine flu typically have a fever or a high temperature (over 38°C / 100.4°F) and
two or more of the following symptoms:
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unusual tiredness,
headache,
runny nose,
sore throat,
shortness of breath or cough,
loss of appetite,
aching muscles,
diarrhoea or vomiting.
What countries have cases of swine flu?
The swine flu situation is changing quickly. For the most up to date information please visit the
World Health Organisation (WHO) website. They provide information on the countries with
laboratory confirmed cases of 2009 of the novel Influenza A (H1N1) (swine flu) infection: World
Health Organisation (WHO).
For information on Swine Flu in Scotland: Health Protection Scotland.
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What's the difference between swine flu and other types of flu?
Seasonal flu, caused by an existing flu virus, is a common infection in the UK that usually occurs
during a two-month period in winter.
For most people it is an unpleasant, but not life-threatening infection. People who are more at
risk from it, like older people, can be given a vaccine each year.
Influenza A (H5N1) or Bird flu and Influenza A (H1N1) swine flu are types of flu that occur in
birds and animals and do not normally spread to humans - but if they do, it can be very serious
and can cause death.
How quickly could swine flu spread?
After infection, it can take less than 2 days for symptoms to appear. This is the point when
people are most infectious.
On 29 April 2009, the World Health Organization (WHO) raised the level of the swine flu alert
from Phase 4 to Phase 5. This is a "strong signal that a pandemic is imminent," said the WHO.
On 11 June 2009, WHO raised this alert from Phase 5 to Phase 6. This means we are "now at
the start of a 2009 influenza pandemic."
Could people die from swine flu?
Like any type of flu, people can die from Influenza A (H1N1) swine flu for example, if they
develop complications, like pneumonia.
Whilst some people have died, the symptoms of people with swine flu in the UK appear to be
mild. This pattern is consistently reported from other countries.
Is it still ok to eat bacon, pork, ham and gammon?
Yes. This novel influenza strain did not originate in pigs but has genetic material from a number
of strains including, swine, avian and human influenza. It is unfortunate and inaccurate that the
label swine flu was attached to this novel Influenza virus strain. The World Health Organisation
say there is no evidence that swine flu can be transmitted through eating meat.
You should always make sure that meat is cooked properly and at a temperature of a least 70oC
(160oF) to kill any viruses. In general, influenza viruses affect the respiratory tract and the
usual way of transmission is through direct contact or close proximity with affected individuals
or animals.
What are the Scottish Government doing about swine flu?
The Scottish Government and NHS Scotland are working closely with the UK Government and
international bodies. Key to this is the World Health Organisation - the United Nations'
specialised agency for health.
A Scottish flu response service was set up on June 1 by NHS 24. The staffing in it has grown to
keep pace with the growth in flu cases. People in Scotland who are worried about flu-like
symptoms should continue to contact their GP or NHS 24 on 08454 24 24 24.
The Scottish Government has also stockpiled antivirals (osteltamivir and zanimivir) for around
75% of the Scottish population, to be used as and when required.
A vaccination programme is currently being planned. The first batches of the vaccine are
expected to be available in October/November 2009. It will initially be given to the following
groups, in this order:
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People aged between six months and 65 years in current seasonal flu vaccine clinical
at-risk groups.
All pregnant women (subject to licensing).
Household contacts of people with compromised immune systems.
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People aged 65 and over in the current seasonal flu vaccine clinical at-risk groups.
Frontline health and social care workers will also begin to be vaccinated at the same time as the
first priority group.
The Scottish Government have more detailed information on the priority groups for Influenza A
(H1N1) swine flu vaccine.
Health Protection Scotland has systems in place to track the spread of the virus. This will help
to decide how people who may have swine flu should be treated.
Health Protection Scotland will also help to the Scottish Government with planning and any
decisions that needed to be made regarding swine flu.
Will schools close?
If a severe pandemic does occur, some closures may occur. The extent of these closures and
their duration depends on the level of risk to children, which is not yet known.
Why is Scotland not part of the National Pandemic Flu Service
(NPFS) operating in England?
Scotland did not use the National Pandemic Flu Service (NPFS) because NHS 24 and GPs are
able to cope with demand. We are closely monitoring the situation and if demand grows over
the next few months, we have the ability to opt into the NPFS service at a later stage.
A separate Scottish flu response service was set up on June 1 by NHS 24. The staffing in it has
grown to keep pace with the growth in flu cases. People in Scotland who are worried about flulike symptoms should continue to contact their GP or NHS 24 on 08454 24 24 24.
What can I do to avoid getting swine flu?
There are some simple measures that you can take to reduce the risk of infection. However,
you can't completely eliminate the risk of getting swine flu.
It is very important to ensure good hygiene practices by frequently washing your hands with
soap and water to avoid picking up and spreading the virus from surfaces.
Staying at home and avoiding crowds of people could help you to avoid the virus.
Always cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze, or cough, and dispose of your tissues
regularly, by bagging and binning them.
Ensuring that you lead a healthy lifestyle will help you to be better equipped to fight off
infection. Eating a healthy diet, that includes five portions of fruit and vegetables a day, and
taking regular exercise, will help to keep you fit and healthy.
Will my usual flu jab work against swine flu?
No, the seasonal flu vaccination will not protect you against Influenza A (H1N1) swine flu. If you
are in the seasonal flu at risk group you will need to have the two separate types of vaccination
to fully protect you against both viruses. This means you would receive three jabs in total.
Is there a jab to protect me from swine flu?
Yes - The first batches of the swine flu vaccine are expected to be available some time in
October/November 2009.
Those in the priority groups will be first in line.
Should I wear a mask to protect myself?
It is unlikely that wearing a mask will prevent you from becoming infected with swine flu.
Masks can help to prevent people who have swine flu from passing it on to other people.
Some health staff and other workers may be advised to wear mask in certain situations.
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What should I do if I think I might have been exposed to swine
flu?
If you develop flu-like symptoms stay at home and take simple remedies like fluid and
paracetamol. If your symptoms give you cause for concern, phone your GP or NHS 24 on
0845 4 24 24 24 for further advice.
Also make sure you follow the basic hygiene precautions described here: What should i do to
avoiding getting swine flu?
When should I go back to work?
You can go back to school or work when you are feeling well and are no longer infectious, which
is when you no longer have flu-like symptoms. This should be 24 hours after your symptoms
have settled.
The time it takes for symptoms to go is usually about five days (seven days in children). Avoid
unnecessary contact with others and stay at home during the infectious period.
How long can I self-certify?
There is no change to the current position. You can self-certify for 7 days as before.
I am planning to travel to a place that has confirmed cases of
Swine Flu, should I still go?
We are unable to provide advice on travel. Therefore, you should check with:
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your travel company and/or
your travel insurance provider
the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. Visit their website www.fco.gov.uk.
What should I do if I think I might have been exposed to swine
flu?
If you have recently visited one of the countries or areas where human cases of swine flu have
been identified, or been in close contact with someone who has confirmed or suspected swine
flu, it is important for you to monitor your health closely for seven days after your visit or
contact NHS 24 on 0845 4 24 24 24 for advice.
There is no need for you to isolate yourself from other people as long as you remain well.
Can swine flu be treated with antivirals?
There are four different antiviral drugs that are licensed for use for the treatment of influenza:
amantadine, rimantadine, oseltamivir and zanamivir. Influenza A (H1N1) (swine flu) viruses are
susceptible to oseltamivir and zanamivir however they are resistant to amantadine and
rimantadine. At this time, the use of oseltamivir or zanamivir (Relenza) is recommended for the
treatment of infection with this strain of swine flu.
Antivirals may help to:
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reduce the length of time you are ill by around a day,
relieve some of the symptoms, and
reduce the potential for serious complications like pneumonia.
Antivirals will not cure you, but they may help to lessen the symptoms and help you recover.
For more information visit Swine Flu - Treatment
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Who will get antivirals?
Arrangements are being put into place for antivirals to be made available to those who need
them.
If you have flu-like symptoms and are concerned, stay at home. You can check your symptoms
on our Self Help Guide or call the swine flu information line on 0800 1 513 513.
If you have taken these steps and are still concerned, call your GP or NHS 24 on 0845 4
242424. Do not travel to your GP or hospital.
If I take an antiviral and have side effects, who should I inform?
If you taken antivirals and feel you may be experiencing side effects:
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Check with your healthcare professional before you do anything else. They will give you
the appropriate advice.
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If it is possible, report your suspected drug reaction to the MHRA (Medicines and
Healthcare products Regulatory Agency) via their new online system.
This new online system, based on the Yellow Card Scheme, helps the MHRA to monitor the
safety of Tamiflu and Relenza.
If you do not have access to the internet you can ask your healthcare provider to send a report
on your behalf.
Oseltamivir resistant influenza A (H1N1) (swine flu) virus in the
UK, 2008/09
In relation to the novel strain of Influenza A (H1N1) swine flu, 23 cases of resistance to
oseltamivir have been reported worldwide. This resistance is not known to have been
transmitted.
Am I at more risk of catching Swine flu if I'm pregnant?
During pregnancy, you may have an increased risk of complications from any type of flu,
especially in the second and third trimester.
Can I take antiviral drugs if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
There is limited information available on the safety of using antivirals during pregnancy.
However, in all cases, early initiation of antiviral treatment for pregnant women with influenza is a
priority.
Pregnant women presenting with early uncomplicated illness due to influenza, and who have no
evidence of systemic disease (ie disease involving organ systems other than the lungs), can be
offered either zanamivir (Relenza) or oseltamivir (Tamiflu). Zanamivir is recommended as first choice
although either drug can be used. If the patient suffers with conditions such as asthma or chronic
pulmonary disease, or may have difficulty with an inhaled preparation, oseltamivir should be used.
Should I avoid unnecessary travel if I am pregnant?
Current guidance in the UK for pregnant women remains unchanged.
Pregnant women are at a greater risk of complications from swine flu, as with any flu, but the
risk is nevertheless still very low and very few pregnant women have been infected with swine
flu.
Therefore, if you are pregnant you can still undertake all your usual daily activities, including
travelling on public transport, as it is important that you continue to live your life in as normal a
way as possible.
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You should continue to ensure good hygiene by washing you hands frequently with soap and
water to avoid picking up and spreading the virus from surfaces.
You should always cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you sneeze or cough and
dispose of your tissues promptly by bagging and binning them.
Should I avoid crowded places if I am pregnant?
Current guidance in the UK for pregnant women remains unchanged.
Pregnant women are at a greater risk of complications from swine flu, as with any flu, but the
risk is nevertheless still very low and very few pregnant women have been infected with swine
flu.
You should continue to ensure good hygiene by washing you hands frequently with soap and
water to avoid picking up and spreading the virus from surfaces.
Will pregnant women get preference for a swine flu jab?
Pregnant women will be offered the vaccine for Influenza A (H1N1) swine flu when it becomes
available. This is anticipated sometime in October/ November 2009
Can children take antivirals?
Yes – but only following advice from a medical professional.
Tamiflu is safe for children aged 1 and over, at a reduced dose. Relenza (an inhaler) can be
used by children aged 5 and over but only under the supervision of an adult.
Can babies under one take antivirals?
If your baby has swine flu your doctor or another medical professional will advise what you
should do.
Are older people more likely to catch swine flu?
At the moment, rates of illness caused by Influenza A (H1N1) swine flu, in older people are not
as high as those in younger age groups.
Are older people more at risk of complications if they do catch it?
Yes. Older and frail people are more likely to develop complications from any type of flu, and
are generally less able to fight it off.
Will people with long term conditions get the jab?
Yes - The swine flu vaccine should become available in October/November 2009.
The groups of people who are a greater priority for vaccination have been identified and will be
offered the vaccine in the first phase of any vaccination campaign. See Is there a jab to protect
me from swine flu? for further information.
Are people with asthma or COPD more at risk from swine flu?
Yes. If you do catch a respiratory infection, including swine flu, it may add to any breathing
difficulties you may have.
It is important to follow good hygiene practices as described in the Swine flu leaflet.
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If you develop flu-like symptoms contact your GP. If your GP is closed call NHS 24 on 0845 4 24
24 24.
Can I take antivirals if I have asthma or COPD?
Yes - Although Relenza (an inhaler) is usually not given to people with asthma as on rare
occasions it can cause breathing complications.
Am I more at risk of catching swine flu if I have HIV?
It depends on your immune system. Although HIV infects CD4 cells and reduces their number
and function, there are other parts of the immune system that are able to fight flu. For more
information, go to the Terrence Higgins Trust website (links to external site).
I have diabetes. Am I at more at risk from swine flu?
If you do catch it, you should monitor your blood glucose level closely as it may increase and
your diabetes treatment may need to be adjusted accordingly.
Are people with liver disease at more risk of catching swine flu?
If you have liver disease you are no more likely to catch swine flu than anyone else. If you do
catch it, antivirals are safe to take – there is no interaction between these and antivirals you
may already be taking to treat hepatitis.
Who will the vaccine be given to first?
The first batches of the vaccine are expected to be available in October/November 2009; it will
initially be given to the following groups, in this order:




People aged between six months and 65 years in current seasonal flu vaccine clinical
at-risk groups.
All pregnant women (subject to licensing).
Household contacts of people with compromised immune systems.
People aged 65 and over in the current seasonal flu vaccine clinical at-risk groups.
Frontline health and social care workers will also begin to be vaccinated at the same time as the
first priority group.
The Scottish Government have more detailed information on the priority groups for Influenza A
H1N1 swine flu vaccine.
I am in one of the at risk groups, how do I get the vaccine?
People in the priority groups do not need to take any action yet.
Find out more about the priority groups.
Further announcements will be made when the vaccination strategy is ready, and those who
need a vaccine will be contacted.
What about people who do not fall into the priority group?
A vaccination programme for the rest of the population will be based on the evolution of the
pandemic as well as new clinical data on the use of the vaccine. We will continue to closely
monitor the situation over the coming months.
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