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Swine Flu - H1N1 Influenza

7 August 2009

As swine flu or H1N1 becomes more established we all need to know what to look for, especially if we have a family member with Down’s syndrome. They could be at higher risk of becoming quite ill due to heart or lung problems, a suppressed immune system or are simply in the younger age range.

Symptoms
Temperature above 38.5 c
Cough or shortness of breath
Sore throat
Runny nose
Joint pains or limb pains
Diarrhoea and/ or vomiting.

Many of these are symptoms of various illnesses. If someone has a high temperature and two other symptoms, this may be swine flu.

Treatment
If you need advice on treatment and receiving Tami flu and you live in;
England - call either the Flu Helpline on 0800 1513513 or NHS Direct on 0845 46 47
Scotland - call 088454 242424
Wales - call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47

Contact your GP if you have specific concerns regarding underlying health problems or special needs. Speak to your Cardiac liaison Nurse if you have worries over heart conditions.

General advice
Go to www.nhs.uk/conditions/Pandemic-flu/pages/QAaspx for more information.
For Scotland try www.nhs24.com
If you live in Wales refer to www.nhsdirect.wales.nhs.uk/