Seasonal flu:
The virus now circulates worldwide as one of three seasonal flu viruses. The other viruses are influenza virus B and influenza virus A/H3N2.The symptoms of flu caused by the H1N1pdm09 virus are similar to those of other types.
This includes:
- a sudden fever – a temperature of 38C (100.4F) or above
- tiredness
- aching muscles or joint pain
- a headache
- a runny or blocked nose
Most people recover within a week, even without special treatment.However, some people are at a higher risk of complications and are recommended to have the seasonal flu jab.
When to see your GP:
If you are otherwise fit and healthy, there is usually no need to visit your GP if you have flu-like symptoms. See your GP if you have flu-like symptoms and are at a higher risk of complications of seasonal flu.
This includes:
- children under two years old
- anyone over the age of 65
- pregnant women
- children and adults with an underlying health condition (particularly long-term heart or respiratory disease)
- children and adults with weakened immune systems
Vaccination:
The seasonal flu jab is available for free on the NHS for those at risk and is given as an annual injection to:
- adults over the age of 18 at risk of flu (including everyone over 65)
- children aged from six months to two years who are at risk of flu
The flu vaccine is also offered as an annual nasal spray to:
- children aged 2 to 18 years at risk of flu
- children aged two, three and four
- all children in school years 1 and 2
Read more information about who should have the flu jab and why pregnant women should have the flu jab.
Read more information about:
You can also read the NICE guidelines on antivirals for the prevention of flu. Flu is a highly infectious illness caused by the flu virus. It spreads rapidly through small droplets coughed or sneezed into the air by an infected person. Some people are at greater risk of developing serious complications of flu, such as bronchitis and pneumonia. The flu vaccination is offered to people in at-risk groups.