Swine Flu

What is Swine Flu?

Swine flu is a respiratory disease, caused by a strain of the influenza type A virus known as H1N1. It causes flu-like symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, pains in the muscles or joints, headache, chills, fatigue and runny nose.

If I have MS am I at greater risk?

People with auto-immune diseases like MS are more susceptible to all types of infection and virus. However, most people who contract swine flu will experience a mild illness that will require rest, seclusion and possibly common flu over- the- counter medications. More severe cases of swine flu some people may require specific treatments such as Tamiflu. However, this is only effective if administered in the early stages of the virus.There is no evidence to suggest that those with MS will experience the virus differently to those who do not have MS.

What if I experience swine flu symptoms?

You are recommended to contact your GP by phone. They will advise if you need treatment or testing.

• Stay inside and refrain from going to work or socialising for 7 days


• Wash your hands frequently with hot soapy water or bacterial wipes, particularly after coughing or sneezing


• Use a tissue when sneezing, coughing, wiping your nose etc. Throw into the bin immediately


• Clean work surfaces and utensils properly

What can I do to protect myself against swine flu?

• There is no fail-safe way to avoid the virus, but there are some practical steps you can take to minimise the risk:


• Wash your hands frequently with hot soapy water or bacterial wipes, particularly after coughing or sneezing


• Clean work surfaces and utensils properly


• Avoid meeting people who are unwell

Further Information

• The HSE’s website contains detailed information on swine flu


• Department of Health and Children www.dohc.ie


• Download information and medical advice leaflet for the public on Influenza A(H1N1).


• 'Guide to the Implementation of the World Health Organisation (WHO) Multimodal Hand Hygiene Improvement Strategy' has been designed for use by any health-care facility irrespective of the level of resources or whether the facility has already implemented any hand hygiene initiatives. One of the tools recommended in the Guide to Implementation is the: 'How to Handrub and How to Handwash' Poster. The poster explains the correct procedures and is excellent visual display that can be used throughout facilities. To download and use this image go to http://www.who.int/gpsc/5may/tools/workplace_reminders/en/index.html


• Keep up to date with First Global Patient Safety Challenge information at http://www.who.int/gpsc/en/ If you want to know more about who the First Challenge team are see:http://www.who.int/gpsc/background/en/index.html If you have any specific enquiries, send them to savelives@who.int

 * This is an information sheet only. Treatments and inventions described should only be used in accordance with professional medical assistance.