As winter gets into full swing, you might be hearing about all sorts of illnesses like flu and colds which inevitably rear their heads at this time of the year.
You might also remember hearing about swine flu a few years back and now the first human case of a strain of swine flu has been detected in the UK.
RELATED NEWS | Swine Flu UK :The first human case of swine flu detected
But what is it and what are the symptoms to look out for?
The NHS says swine flu is “a respiratory disease caused by a new strain of flu virus. The seasonal flu vaccines that are already available don’t protect against swine flu, so a new flu vaccine has been developed.”
For some, flu or COVID-19 can be very dangerous and even life-threatening. Flu and COVID-19 vaccines reduce the risk of serious illness in colder months.
— NHS (@NHSuk) November 27, 2023
Find out if you’re eligible and book now via the NHS App or at https://t.co/xD9FNcA96x pic.twitter.com/aOZRVTh0pV
How long does swine flu last and is it serious?
Most people who get swine flu will notice that it’s mild and usually lasts a week.
Symptoms come on quickly – here’s what to look out for, according to the NHS.
What symptoms do you experience with swine flu?
Swine flu symptoms include fever, tiredness, a cough and a sore throat.
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Other symptoms can include a headache, aching muscles, chills, sneezing, a runny nose, loss of appetite.
You might also experience vomiting and diarrhoea.
Some people are at a higher risk of becoming seriously ill with swine flu, including pregnant women so it’s important to have the vaccine.
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