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Swine flu

Welsh Assembly Government

Swine flu

Person sneezing

You can read the latest information about the situation in Wales on these pages, including weekly updates.

The majority of cases of swine flu in Wales have been mild although proving severe for a small minority.

The second pandemic wave of swine flu to hit Wales is now over, with evidence showing only limited circulation in some parts of Wales.

Our surveillance schemes show that levels of flu like illness are falling. The number of people contacting their general practitioner (GP) with flu symptoms across Wales as a whole is at a lower level than we would expect to see in a normal flu season at this time of year.

Nevertheless, we still advise people to be aware of the symptoms of swine flu and of the steps that can be taken to prevent its spread.

Vaccination of vulnerable groups continues and is the most effective tool we have in preventing swine flu now or if swine flu returns later in the year. We urge people identified as being at risk, and parents of young children, to take up the offer of vaccination.

Stay informed

If you have flu-like symptoms stay at home. You can check the symptoms by calling the swine flu information line on 0800 1 513 513 or by visiting the NHS Direct Wales website (external link).

Flu is an unpleasant illness but most healthy people, including children, will get better after a few days if they follow these steps:

  1. stay at home and rest;
  2. drink plenty of fluids; and
  3. take medication such as paracetamol to control fever and pain.

Please do not go to your GP surgery, Accident & Emergency, or other healthcare premises as you may pass the infection on to other people who are at a higher risk of complications if they get the virus.

If you are concerned – perhaps your symptoms are severe or continue to get worse – or you are in a high risk group then you should phone your GP for further advice, and if necessary, antiviral treatment.

For general advice, you can also contact NHS Direct Wales on 0845 46 47. 

Updates, background and further information and advice about the outbreak of swine flu can be found on the National Public Health Service for Wales website (external link)


Latest News

Swine flu pandemic weekly report - Thursday 11 March 2010

11/03/10
Issued by the Welsh Assembly Government and National Public Health Service for Wales (NPHS).

Swine flu pandemic weekly report - Thursday 04 March 2010

04/03/10
Issued by the Welsh Assembly Government and National Public Health Service for Wales (NPHS).

Related Links

All children over six months and under five years are now being offered the swine flu vaccine.
This leaflet gives advice about the swine flu vaccination.
This leaflet gives advice about the swine flu vaccination for pregnant women.
This factsheet gives advice about what to do if you think you have swine flu.
Working with UK health dpartments to help protect the nation against pandemic flu.