This link is to provide patients with up to date information on current health issues. Swine Flu What is swine flu and how serious is it? A new strain of Influenza A (H1N1), also known as swine flu, was confirmed in the UK in April and has spread to more than 100 countries around the world. Although symptoms have generally proved mild, a small number of patients will develop more serious illness. Many of these people have other underlying health conditions such as heart or lung disease, that put them at increased risk. How do I know I have swine flu? Flu symptoms can include: fever, cough, headache, weakness and fatigue, aching muscles and joints, sore throat and runny nose. As with any sort of influenza, how bad and how long the symptoms last will depend on treatment and the patient's individual circumstances. Most cases reported in the UK have been relatively mild, with those affected starting to recover within a week. I think I may have swine flu - what should I do? If you have flu-like symptoms and are concerned that you may have swine flu, please contact the surgery on 01325 380640. General prevention measures General hygiene can help to reduce transmissions 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 form your hands to your face or to other people Cleaning hard surfaces (such as door handles) frequently using a normal cleaning product. Mid Life Check Small changes can make a big difference NHS (National Health Service) MidLifeCheck is a free service to help you find out how you are doing. All your answers are private and no-one else can see your results. Click on the weblink below to access this service. www.midlifecheck.co.uk