Seasonal influenza (flu)

What's the difference between a ‘common cold’ and the flu?

The flu is a more debilitating infection. As well as experiencing the same symptoms as a cold, you may also experience muscle aches and pain, a fever, a headache and a cough. Some people develop complications to the flu such as a bacterial lung infection or bronchitis.

What is swine flu?

Swine flu is the H1N1 virus - a strain of flu that is carried by pigs. It doesn't normally affect humans, but this particular strain has mutated and infected humans. It can now be passed from human to human. There is no evidence that pigs in the UK carry the infection. In the autumn/winter of 2010 the standard flu vaccine included the swine flu vaccine.

How can I avoid the flu?

People with heart disease are eligible for the flu vaccine each year. People over the age of 65 years, or those with diabetes, chronic liver or chronic kidney disease and pregnant women are also eligible. Whilst these groups of people are not more likely to catch the flu than others,  they are more likely to become very ill with it. Your GP or practice nurse can tell you more about the vaccine and how to get it.  It's also a good idea to avoid close contact with friends or relatives who have already got the virus.

What should I do if I think I have the flu?

You should contact your GP surgery by telephone and they will advise you on the most appropriate course of action for you. It is important that you speak to your doctor or pharmacist before taking over the counter medicines such as pain killers and cough medicines. This is because some of the medications to relieve the symptoms of the flu cannot be taken with those prescribed for some chronic diseases.

How long does the flu last?

Most people in the UK have recovered within a week of getting the infection. However, as with any illness, it will depend on your general health and how soon you get treatment. You should speak to your GP practice as soon as you feel unwell or if you think you have been exposed to the infection.

I have a heart condition, what will happen if I get flu?

If you have chronic heart disease then you have a greater risk of becoming more seriously ill from the flu than the general population. 

There is also evidence that heart attacks happen more often during or immediately after an acute inflammatory illness, such as flu.

So if you have a chronic heart condition, including heart failure or congenital heart disease, you are recommended to get the flu vaccination. If you think you have the flu you should contact your GP as soon as possible for advice.

If you take warfarin, it's important to know that if you are unwell, such as having a cold or flu like symptoms, it can affect your blood clotting rate (INR). So if you are feeling unwell, speak to your doctor or anticoagulation nurse about monitoring your INR.

Is the flu vaccine safe?

Yes, for most people the flu vaccine is considered safe and would not have been licensed if it was considered unsafe in any way. Your GP or Practice Nurse will talk to you about potential side effects and any increased risk from these side effects that you may have.

Will the flu vaccine stop me getting the flu?

The vaccine should give you around 70-80% protection against the flu so people in the high risk groups outlined above are strongly encouraged to have it.

More information

NHS Choices has more information on this year's flu jab (2011/12)

The Health Protection Agency has more information on swine flu.