Swine flu: Should we be worried?

Jun 4 2009

While a vaccine to prevent swine flu is still being developed, those who catch it are being treated with the antiviral Tamiflu.

It has mild side-effects, which include nausea and vomiting, but it's generally "well-tolerated", so don't be afraid of the treatment.

"If it's prescribed within two days of infection, it effectively stops the virus spreading as widely as it would otherwise do, both in the individual and to contact members," says Prof Jones.

While we're right to be vigilant about this new strain of flu and follow good hygiene guidelines, we shouldn't be overly concerned.

"One of the dangers if you raise concerns too highly is that everyone checks themselves into accident and emergency and everything gets clogged up when actually they don't need to be there," says Prof Jones.

"If you do get the infection and the predominant outcome is not serious, at least you'll be less worried about it."

:: SWINE FLU PRECAUTIONS

The Health Protection Agency gives the following advice:

1. Practice good basic hygiene, wash hands frequently with soap and water to reduce the spread of virus from your hands to face or to other people.

2. Clean hard surfaces frequently using a normal cleaning product.

3. Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, using a tissue.

4. Dispose of dirty tissues promptly and carefully.

:: ADVICE FOR TRAVELLERS

1. Travellers should continue to be aware of the risk of swine flu and anyone experiencing flu-like symptoms during a stay in a country affected by swine flu should contact a health professional and inform them of their symptoms.

2. Anyone who becomes ill on their flight home should alert cabin crew to their symptoms.

3. Travellers returning from a country affected by swine flu who become unwell with flu-like symptoms within seven days of their return should stay at home and contact their GP or NHS Direct on 0845 4647.

4. To access the Department of Health Swine Flu Information line when abroad, call 00 44 207 928 1010.