Swine Flu

Flu cases have continued to increase across the UK. It is important to remember that the majority of cases in the UK so far have not been severe, with most of those catching the virus making a full and fast recovery - usually within 7 days.

The symptoms of swine flu are broadly the same as those of ordinary flu with typical symptoms being:

  • Sudden fever, and
  • Sudden cough
Swine Flu : Swine Flu

Other symptoms may include

  • Headache
  • Chills
  • Aching muscles and joint pain
  • Diarrhoea or stomach upset
  • Sore throat
  • Sneezing
  • Loss of appetite.

People are most infectious soon after they develop symptoms though they can continue to shed the virus, for example in coughs and sneezes, typically for up to five days (seven days in children).  People become less infectious as their symptoms subside and once symptoms are gone, they are considered no longer infectious to others.  Most people who have contracted swine flu recover within a week and do not suffer complications, even without being given antiviral medication.

What should I do if I think I am developing flu-like symptoms?

            - you have a serious underlying illness

            - you are pregnant

            - you have a sick child under one year old

            - your condition suddenly gets much worse

            - your condition is still getting worse after seven days (or five days for a child)

Note: The National Pandemic Flu Service is a self-care service that will asses your symptoms and, if required, provide an authorisation number which can be used to collect antiviral medication from a local collection point. For those who do not have internet access, the same service can be accessed by telephone on:

  • Telephone: 0800 1 513 100
  • Minicom: 0800 1 513 200

For more information on the National Pandemic Flu Service go to Flu Service – Q&A

We all have a key role to play in reducing the transmission of this virus by following good personal hygiene practices, namely:

  • Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, using a tissue. Try and dispose of dirty tissues promptly and carefully. (See "Catch it, Bin it, Kill it"  campaign)
  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water to reduce the spread of the virus from your hands to face or to other people. (See "Wet, Soap, Wash, Rinse, Dry" campaign).  Please note that an antibacterial spray/gel is not a substitute for washing your hands.
  • Make sure your children follow this advice

You can also prepare now in case Swine Flu becomes widespread by establishing a network of "flu friends" – friends or relatives who do not have swine flu or symptoms but who can help if you fall ill by collecting medicines and other supplies for you.

Please visit the web links on the right hand side of the page for further useful information.

The Health Protection Agency is the Government appointed body that is responsible for taking the lead on coordinating the national response. Their web site offers the latest information on the situation.

Information on measures being undertaken in Gloucestershire can be found on the Gloucestershire County Council Website.