Pandemic flu – should we still be worried?

According to the latest information from the WHO, more than 200 countries and territories worldwide have had reported laboratory-confirmed cases of pandemic influenza H1N. Figures suggest that the majority of people getting influenza H1N1are below the age of 50.

To try to minimise a potential recurrence (second wave) of the virus, vaccination campaigns are now coming into force around the world. The WHO has advised that the groups most at risk of complications from H1N1 should be given the vaccine first – for example, people with heart, kidney, liver or neurological diseases, diabetes or a weakened immune system, such as those who have HIV/Aids or those who are taking medicines to suppress their immune system.

Pregnant women are also at a greater risk of complications from the virus. So far, one in 10 hospital admissions for influenza H1N1 have been pregnant women in their second or third trimester, and the WHO estimates that pregnant women are four to five times more likely to develop complications as a result of catching the virus.

However, concerns have already been raised about the safety of the vaccine, especially for pregnant women, so how do we know that it is safe?

So far research has found no evidence of any harmful effects from the influenza H1N1 vaccine. The influenza H1N1 vaccine is a ‘dead’ vaccine; this means it does not have a ‘live’ virus in it. Because of this, there is limited chance of the vaccine actually causing flu. It is important to remember that the influenza H1N1 vaccine does not replace the need for the seasonal flu vaccine.

Despite waning press coverage, a flu pandemic is still a very real threat. It is important to remain vigilant and be aware of the symptoms. These are similar to the symptoms of seasonal flu – a fever of over 38°C/100.4°F and two or more of the following: tiredness, headache, runny nose, sore throat, shortness of breath or a cough, loss of appetite, aching muscles and sickness or diarrhoea. If you do have symptoms, stay at home, don't go to work or visit your doctor, rather call him or her for advice.

To reduce your risk of getting the virus, it is essential that you follow good respiratory and hand hygiene measures.

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
  
• Dispose of dirty tissues in a bin immediately.
  
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
  
• Clean hard surfaces, such as door handles, frequently using a normal cleaning product.
  
• Make sure your children follow this advice.

Related information

Swine flu factsheet

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