Swine flu

  Swine flu is a respiratory illness caused by the type A flu (H1N1) virus. The current influenza pandemic (commonly known as swine flu) in countries around the world has been caused by a new version (strain) of the virus named as Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 by World Health Organization (WHO).

Transmission of this new virus is thought to occur in the same way as seasonal flu. The infection can be effectively treated with antiviral medication. Most reported cases in the UK have been mild and people have recovered fully after treatment.

If you have flu-like symptoms and are concerned that you may have swine flu:

Check your symptoms using the symptom checker on the NHS Direct website http://www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk/ or call
the Northern Ireland Swine Flu information line on 0800 0 514 142
(available from 8.00am-8.00pm).

For the Regional Helpline for Health Care Professionals
Call: 028 9055 3994.

For National Swine Flu Information line
Call: 0800 1 513 513.

More information can be obtained from the Department of Health Social Services and Public Safety website. You may also find our information for pregnant women useful.

If you are still concerned, stay at home and call your GP who can provide a diagnosis.  If swine flu is diagnosed, your GP may recommend you take a course of antiviral medication. This should be collected for you by a healthy friend or relative from a collection point advised by your GP

Health protection advice

General hygiene can help to reduce transmission of all viruses, including the swine flu virus. This includes:

  • Covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, using a tissue when possible
  • Disposing of dirty tissues promptly and carefully
  • Maintaining good basic hygiene, for example washing hands frequently with soap and water to reduce the spread of the virus from your hands to your face or to other people
  • Cleaning hard surfaces (such as door handles) frequently using a normal cleaning product.

For more information please read the Department of Health Swine Flu Leaflet.  Versions of the swine flu information leaflet are available in other languages from the Directgov website http://www.direct.gov.uk/.  Video, audio, large print, easy read and braille versions are also available.

Vaccination
Swine flu vaccination - what you need to know
Information for healthcare professionals about the swine flu vaccination of pregnant women
Swine flu vaccination training slides.

Page last updated:16 February 2010