Whatis Swine Flu?

Swine Flu is a new strain of Influenza, A (H1N1), which came to our attention in March of 2009. The first outbreak came from Mexico but it has now spread to over 100 countries in less than 3 months. Globally, there are now over 77,000 confirmed cases and 332 deaths.

Generally, symptoms of Swine Flu are no worse than 'ordinary' flu - including fever, cough, headache, weakness and fatigue. Like with 'ordinary' flu, some groups of people are more at risk of serious illness if they catch swine flu. They include people with a weakened immune system - for example young chldren, pregnant women and the elderly. You are also likely to be more affected by swine flu if you suffer from;-
chronic lung disease

• chronic heart disease
• chronic kidney disease
• chronic liver disease
• chronic neurological disease
• Immunosuppression (whether caused by disease or treatment)
• Diabetes mellitus
• patients who have had drug treatment for asthma within the past three years

In the UK, there have been 7447 cases (as of July 2009) - of which 4 people have died resulting from Swine Flu. The numbers certainly would have been more, but the government moved swiftly to contain the virus, by closing schools and producing the 'Catch it, bin it, kill it' campaign. However, this wasn't enough to contain the virus and numbers are increasing daily.