Swine flu is no longer in the news at but it is still around. We've got some information to help you understand what's going on.
Swine flu is a type of flu that affects pigs but can also be seen in humans, wild birds, poultry and horses. Recently it has been affecting humans more, especially in Mexico. There are different types of swine flu and the one that has been affecting people is swine flu A (H1N1) virus.
Swine flu can now be spread between people. It’s spread through the tiny droplets that come out of your noise when you sneeze and your mouth when you cough. They can be spread around one metre away if the person sneezing or coughing doesn’t cover their mouth or nose with a tissue.
We’re taught that we should cough or sneeze into our hands so we don’t spread germs. Unfortunately this isn’t good enough when it comes to swine flu (and many other flu viruses) as the germs from the droplets in your hands can be spread to other things you touch, So always make sure you cough or sneeze into a tissue and then throw this away.
Some people who are more likely to catch swine flu are encouraged to get vaccinated. Priority groups include:
If you don't fit into one of these groups and are concerned about catching Swine flu then your doctor will be able to advise you on the best course of action.
Symptoms are similar to other types of flu: high temperature, tiredness, coughing, sore throat and no appetite. It’s hard to tell different types of flu apart so if you are in any doubt, call NHS 24.
If you are at all worried that you may have swine flu, stay at home, do not go to your doctor’s surgery, hospital or chemists (or anywhere else!) as you may spread it to other people. Instead, call your doctor on NHS 24 on 08454 24 24 24. They will ask you about your symptoms to work out what to do next. If they have any concerns that you might have swine flu someone will come to your home to examine you and give you the antiviral medicine.
Swine flu can be treated with medicines known as anti-virals (brand names are Tamiflu and Relenza). The antivirals don’t cure swine flu but they make the symptoms less severe and lessen the chances of complications, as well as helping you to get better. People in the UK who have had swine flu have been successfully treated with antivirals.
The World Health Organisation has announced that there is now a swine flu pandemic. This means that a flu virus spreads very quickly between people causing serious illness, because it is a new type of flu virus most people won’t have any immunity to it.
Announcing a pandemic doesn't mean that the virus has become more serious, just that more people have been getting swine flu. The Scottish Government has plans in place to try and minimise the effects of swine flu, including getting lots of supplies of vaccines and medication.
You can get more information from the Scottish Government, NHS Inform, Health Protection Scotland and BBC websites.
Published on 07/07/2010
Last modified on 05/01/2012
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