Signs and symptoms - Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu

Information for:

Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu
Signs and symptoms

Signs and symptoms of the new Influenza A (H1N1) virus are similar to the symptoms of seasonal flu and can include:

fever (a temperature ≥38 °C)
cough
sore throat
runny or stuffy nose
body aches
headache
chills
fatigue.

Some people also experience diarrhoea and vomiting.

Also, like seasonal flu:

the worst symptoms usually last about five days, but coughing can last up to two to three weeks
some very young children, people with some long-term medical conditions, pregnant women, and older people, can get very sick
in rare instances severe illness and death can occur.

The World Health Organization says it will be difficult to tell the difference between seasonal flu and non-seasonal influenza A (H1N1). Most people will experience a mild to moderate illness and will be able to manage the symptoms at home.

See also:

The key messages are:

If you have flu-like symptoms, stay at home until essentially well, that is not sneezing and coughing as this is how the virus spreads. This is usually around three to four days after symptoms start, but coughing may last up to two or three weeks.
If your condition worsens, seek medical advice by phone FIRST by calling Healthline 0800 611 116 or your healthcare provider.

If you require a translator, Healthline uses Language Line Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. When you call Healthline during these hours, the nurse or call handler can usually arrange for an interpreter. Outside these hours Healthline uses other interpreter services as far as possible. It is not always possible to locate an interpreter in a particular language at short notice.

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Page last updated: 30 July 2009

Related information

What to expect if you have Human Swine Flu (Victorian Health website)