The symptoms of swine flu in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human seasonal influenza infection and include fever, fatigue, lack of appetite, coughing and sore throat. Some people with swine flu have also reported vomiting and diarrhoea.
From 11 February 2010 if you think you or a family member have these symptoms, you should stay at home and contact your GP who will be able to assess you and authorise antivirals if you need them. These will remain available through antiviral collections points until further notice. Six community pharmacies in Islington are currently supplying antiviral medicine and these facilities are dealing efficiently with the current demand.
Those who have a serious underlying illness, who are pregnant or who have a sick child under one year old should contact their GP directly.
Antivirals will lessen your symptoms and help you recover quickly. It is very important that if you start a course of antivirals you MUST complete them. You can also help your recovery by taking plenty of rest and drinking fluids regularly. You can also help by ensuring you prevent the spread of the virus by observing good hygiene practices in the home and only returning to work when you have recovered.
Your GP will also be able to advise you on vaccination.
For up to date information visit www.direct.gov.uk/swineflu or call the Swine Flu Information Line on 0800 1 513 513. Minicom: 0800 1 513 200.
Page Last Updated: 09 February 2010