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Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory disease that is also more commonly known as the flu. During the Autumn and winter months, it is most active however it can still be caught at any time of the year. During these winter months migratory birds bring with them an increased threat of the deadly avian bird flu, also known as the H5N1 strain. |
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Although any form of the flu is very unpleasant, most people manage to make a full recovery without any complications. However in some cases, particularly the young, old and those with other health conditions, there is a much higher risk of ongoing problems and in rare instances, the flu can be fatal.
The Influenza virus symptoms usually appear very suddenly and onset within 24-48 hours. It can make you feel sick and tired, with most sufferers being bed-bound with the need to rest. The complications that can arise from the flu include dehydration, bacterial pneumonia, and worsening of certain medical conditions like cardiovascular problems, asthma, or diabetes. It is common for ear infections and sinus problems to develop in those of any age.
The most effective treatment currently available in the UK for the influenza virus is Tamiflu 75mg. Tamifli has been found to be effective in preventing and treating all forms of the influenza virus in people of all age ranges, through its active ingredient Oseltamivir.
Some of the common symptoms of influenza include:
- High fever
- Chills and shivering
- Headache
- Tiredness due to restless sleep
- Vomiting and Diarrhea
- Cough
- Lack of appetite
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Body aches
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Whilst these are the most common symptoms likely to occur whilst suffering from the flu, they are not exclusive and there could be others. In those suffering from other problems such as cardiovascular disease or asthma problems there could be more complicated and long-lasting symptoms. It is important to note that if you feel that a symptom is particularly bothersome, it may be an early warning sign of more serious effects to come and in this instance your local health centre should be contacted straight away.
What is Swine Flu?
Swine flu is a new and potentially lethal strain of the influenza virus. Initially this virus had caused several significant outbreaks amongst pigs; however a new strain of the virus, known as H1N1, has now become harmful to humans. This new strain can cross between species much easier and has lead to a large number of reported cases across the globe. The first confirmed case was found in Mexico, but there have been cases appearing across the world since. This has prompted the World Health Organisation to increase their pandemic warning level up to 6, the highest waning level, which indicates that a pandemic is already taking place.
There are many variations of swine flu and other types of Influenza, with strains constantly adapting and evolving into more resistant and powerful viruses. This level of threat has been seen before. Early in the 20th century, there were three recorded influenza pandemics, causing millions of fatalities worldwide. These pandemics started as a result of new, more resistant strains of the influenza virus. The current strain of the swine flu influenza was first reported in April 2009. This was a strain that had not been seen before, causing a considerable level of concern for those who live and work in areas where infections have been reported.
11th June 2009 – The World Health Organisation officially announces a global pandemic
It has been announced that we are currently in the middle of a pandemic for the first time over 40 years, with the virus reaching six on a six point scale. The outbreak is in adolescence and the World Health Organisation has based its decision to raise the scale on the current spread of the virus worldwide, as opposed to the severity of the strain. However, each country has been advised to follow necessary precautions in preparation of new waves of the virus.
14th June 2009 – Swine Flu claims its first European fatality
A 38 year old new mother from Scotland has become the first European to die as the result of the H1N1 virus, bringing the total number of cases in Britain up to 1,320 and the total number of deaths worldwide, up to 163. 76 countries are currently affected and there have been 35,928 recorded cases to date.
15th June – Doctors set to strike in the event that the virus takes further hold
It has been reported that GPs have announced the possibility of strike action in the event that the virus continues to spread across Britain, due to a reluctance to come into close contact with patients. This is believed to be down to a lack of insurance cover in the event of infection. Health experts have predicted the number of infections to rise, most notably during autumn, a time when school children will be returning from the summer break. The Department of Health (DOH) have publicly announced that they are more than prepared for the virus.
Are there different types of Flu virus?
Normally the flu is brought on by one of two influenza viruses - the influenza A type virus or the influenza B type virus. Both of these viruses are very similar in nature and both bring on the same symptoms. They can only properly be differentiated by a sputum and blood test.
The H5N1 influenza virus, more commonly known as avian or bird flu, is a division of the type A influenza virus. It is currently highly contagious between animals, resulting in the death of tens of millions of birds every year, along with the culling of hundreds of millions to help control its spread. There are worries that if the H5N1 strain was to evolve to easily spread between humans (like many forms of the virus do) then likely result would be an influenza pandemic.
What influenza treatments are available?
Tamiflu is an antiviral prescription treatment that provides protection for both types of the influenza virus. By regularly taking Tamiflu, especially during the winter months when the virus is more prominent, you can help ensure you do not fall victim. The flu normally spreads in respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing and can spread from person to person. So even being in the presence of a person who has influenza can put you at risk.
Tamiflu is manufactured by the Swiss pharmaceutical company Hoffman-La Roche. It can provide protection against the attack of the flu prior to it occurring, as well as helping to reduce the severity and duration of symptoms if you have already been infected.
OnlineClinic offers an online consultation service that connects you with registered doctors and pharmacies, enabling you to safely buy Tamiflu online. Once a consultation form has been completed on our website, a GMC registered doctor will review your details and if necessary, provide a prescription for Tamiflu. At your request, the medication can then be purchased and dispensed from a licensed pharmacy and sent out via next day delivery. The process is simple, safe and secure.
To see the prices of the treatments available to you, click here to start a free consultation.
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