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Information / Swine Flu

For up to date information about swine flu go to health.vic.gov.au.

If you are concerned that you or a family member have swine flu or regular seasonal flu please telephone the surgery on 9592 0744 for information. If you present to the surgery with any flu like symptoms please ask for a mask at reception.

Is this swine flu virus contagious?

This virus is highly contagious and is spreading from human to human. However, at this

time, it does not appear to be any more severe than the normal seasonal flu.

What are the signs and symptoms of swine flu?

The symptoms of swine flu in humans are similar to the symptoms of regular

human flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills

and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with

swine flu. In the past, severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and

deaths have been reported with swine flu infection in people. Like seasonal flu,

swine flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.

Are there medicines to treat swine flu?

This virus appears to be sensitive to oseltamivir (TamiFlu®) and zanamivir

(Relenza®). Treatment with these antiviral medications may be considered.

How long can an infected person spread swine flu to others?

People with swine influenza virus infection should be considered potentially

contagious as long as they are symptomatic and possible for up to 7 days

following illness onset. Children, especially younger children, might potentially be

contagious for longer periods.

What can I do to protect myself from getting sick?

There are everyday actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza. Take these everyday steps to protect your health:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the bin after you use it.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people. Stay at least 1 metre away from sick people.
• If you are sick with influenza, stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.