Is swine flu making a comeback?
Overall the level of flu cases given the time of year are relatively normal. However over the last week the cases of flu have doubled and the number of deaths and severe illnesses have increased, sparking fears that swine flu is making a comeback.
The pandemic is over but the same virus, H1N1 (2009), has, as expected, become one of the seasonal flu strains in circulation.
Uptake of the seasonal flu jab is lower than at this point last year which may be because people feel that swine flu was over-hyped or that they had swine flu or the vaccine last year and so are protected.
Professor Dame Sally Davies, interim Chief Medical Officer said: "Influenza, or flu is a highly contagious viral infection that can lead to serious illness or even death. Anyone can get flu, but some groups are more vulnerable than others, and I strongly recommend that those over 65, pregnant women, and people who are in an at risk group contact their GP or practice nurse now, to ensure they are given their seasonal flu vaccination."
Professor David Salisbury, Director of Immunisation at the Department of Health said: "The effects of flu are not to be underestimated. It is not the same as getting a cold and can seriously affect your health.
"The seasonal flu jab protects against the dominant strains — this year it protects against three types of flu, including the type known as swine flu.
"If you are in a risk group, then I would urge you to visit your GP surgery and get the vaccination as soon as possible. It is not too late to get vaccinated for your protection and that of your family."
Symptoms of flu include fever, aches, stuffy nose, sore throat, fatigue and with swine flu vomiting and diarrhoea has been reported.
The Department of Health has the vaccine should be offered to people aged 65 years or over, pregnant women in any stage of pregnancy, people living in a residential or nursing home, or the main carer for an older or disabled person.
People with long-term illnesses are also at greater risk and those with a heart problem, a chest complaint or breathing difficulties including, bronchitis, emphysema, a kidney disease, lowered immunity due to disease or treatment (such as steroid medication or cancer treatment), a liver disease, had a stroke or a transient ischaemic attack (TIA), diabetes, a neurological condition e.g. multiple sclerosis (MS) or cerebral palsy, a problem with, or removal of, your spleen, should also have the jab.
Studies have shown that the seasonal flu vaccine works best when it is well matched to the strains circulating which it is this year. Around 75 per cent of those vaccinated will not contract flu. It takes around five to ten days for immunity to fully develop after having the vaccine.
A good balance of essential vitamins and minerals, which can be obtained from a healthy diet or from food supplements, is vital for boosting the immune system and fighting colds and flu. A healthy diet coupled with food supplements may help you to stay healthy and fight cold and flu this winter.
Last updated: 20-12-2010
