Swine Flu update: Winter 2010
Swine flu is the common name given to a relatively new strain of influenza (flu) that caused a flu pandemic in 2009-2010. It is also referred to as H1N1 influenza.
There’s no need to panic, as the 2009 pandemic was relatively mild and not as severe as originally predicted. However it is important to be aware of the symptoms and what you should do if you think you or any of your family might be suffering H1N1 flu. It is also important to consider seasonal flu vaccinations if you are currently pregnant, as you are considered in a high risk group.
What are the symptoms of H1N1 flu?
There are many different symptoms of H1N1, and not all will present themselves at the same time. If you or a member of your family has a fever or high temperature (over 38C/100.4F) and two or more of the following symptoms, you may have H1N1 flu:
- unusual tiredness
- headache
- runny nose
- sore throat
- shortness of breath or cough
- loss of appetite
- aching muscles
- diarrhoea or vomiting
If you are suffering from any of the symptoms above, the advice is NOT to go to your GP surgery or A&E department, but phone your surgery and describe your symptoms or phone NHS Direct: 0845 46 47
What can you do to protect yourself and your family from H1N1 flu?
- Always carry tissues on you to use if you sneeze or cough (or if your kids sneeze or cough)
- Always try to cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough
- Throw the tissue away after you have used it on yourself or your kids
- Wash your hands often with soap and hot water and encourage your children to do the same
H1N1 Flu and pregnancy
The H1N1 flu virus has been included in the 2010-11 seasonal flu vaccine. All pregnant women (not just those in high risk groups) are advised to take the seasonal flu jab, which protects against H1N1 flu, unless they have previously been vaccinated against H1N1 flu.
This is because there is good evidence that all pregnant women are at increased risk from complications if they catch H1N1 flu. In pregnancy, the immune system is naturally suppressed. This means that pregnant women are more likely to catch flu and, if they do catch it, they are more likely to develop complications. However, your immune system still functions and the risk of complications is very small. Most pregnant women will only have mild symptoms.
If you have questions or concerns about H1N1 flu or the seasonal flu vaccination please contact your GP or Midwife directly.
H1N1 Flu and children
According to the NHS direct website young children under five are considered to be at risk from the H1N1 virus. If you are worried about your child or your child has any of the symptoms above, call your GP for more advice.
If your GP confirms your child has H1N1 Flu, they should stay at home and you should treat their symptoms like any other cold or flu. So, plenty of liquids, plenty of rest and medicine to bring their fever down.
To find out more about H1N1 Flu, and its symptoms and treatments, visit the NHS Direct website.
The information in this feature is intended for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your health, the health of your child or the health of someone you know, please consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional.
Photo credit to: Mcfarlandmo
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