Cymorth

The latest information on swine flu shows that it is well established in the UK and is likely to affect the lives of most people at some point over the coming months and years. At present, most who have caught the disease have suffered the usual flu symptoms, including: fever, coughing, sneezing and a shortness of breath; headache, sore throat, tiredness and aching muscles. Most people will make a full and complete recovery from this.

It appears that some groups within the population are more likely to get the disease and might be more likely to have complications - some additional information is available for them on the left. However, the most important point to remember is that everyone should make an effort not to spread the disease.

There are some clear guidelines about what to do if you suspect you have it. More detailed information is available through the links and numbers below, especially 0800 1 513 513 and 0845 4647, but some of the main points to remember are:

• If you believe you have the symptoms, stay at home
• More information about the symptoms are available from the websites and numbers below, or by phoning your family doctor  - use them
• If you think you've got the symptoms, don't go to your doctor's surgery or the local A & E without phoning
• If coughing or sneezing, use a clean paper tissue, then bin it
• Wash your hands regularly with soap and hot water or a sanitiser gel