Here are a few questions and answers to address the current concerns about swine flu. You can find out more details on the BBC website.
What are the symptoms of swine flu?
How long are symptoms expected to last?
As with any sort of influenza, the severity and duration of symptoms will vary depending on treatment and individual circumstances. Most cases reported in the UK to date have been relatively mild, with those affected starting to recover within a week.
Should I go to work or school if I have been in contact with someone who I know has swine flu?
Yes, as long as you do not have flu-like symptoms. If you are feeling well, you should go about your normal activities, including going to school or work.
It can take up to seven days (normally two to five days) after infection for swine flu symptoms to develop. If you develop symptoms stay at home and following the advice given in "How is swine flu infection diagnosed".
Is it possible to catch swine flu twice?
Yes, because the virus can mutate (change). If you become infected with the swine flu virus, your body produces antibodies against it, which will recognise and fight off the virus if the body ever encounters it again.
However, if the virus mutates (as normal flu does), your immune system may not recognise this different strain and you may become ill again, although you may have some 'cross protection' due to encountering a similar virus previously.