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The Official Swine Flu Thread

What is Swine Flu?
Swine flu is a respiratory disease, caused by influenza type A which infects pigs. There are many types, and the infection is constantly changing. Until now it has not normally infected humans, but the latest strain has adapted and cases of human transmission have been found. Symptoms of swine influenza are similar to those of seasonal influenza (Flu virus), usually a feverish illness accompanied by one or more of the following cough, sore throat, headache and muscle aches. For most people this illness appears to be mild. Infection with this virus is treatable with the anti-viral drugs oseltamivir (Tamiflu®) and zamanivir (Relenza®).

What are the symptoms of Swine Flu?
fever
cough
headache
weakness and fatigue
aching muscles and joints
sore throat
runny nose
As with any sort of influenza, how bad and how long the symptoms last will depend on treatment and the patient’s individual circumstances.

Most cases reported in the UK have been relatively mild, with those affected starting to recover within a week.


Do you think you have Swine Flu?
Click here for a Swine Flu Checker

Or...

[i]Call this number for Free NHS Advice
0800 1 513 513