Infectious diseases are caused by pathogenic microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, parasites or fungi. The diseases can be spread directly or indirectly from one person to another.
Zoonotic diseases are infectious diseases of animals that can cause disease when transmitted to humans.
Pandemic flu/other serious illnesses
Flu (influenza) pandemics arise as a result of a new flu virus going around and because it is a new strain, few people will have immunity to it, putting larger numbers of people at risk.
This type of flu will spread quickly from person to person and symptoms will be similar to seasonal flu, but may be more severe.
Swine flu
Symptoms of Influenza A in humans are usually similar to regular human seasonal influenza symptoms, involving fever of sudden onset and respiratory symptoms. Vomiting and diarrhoea have also been reported.
Swine flu viruses are usually of the H1N1 sub-type. The swine flu that has spread to humans is a version of this virus.
Set up a network of 'flu friends' these can be neighbours, friends or relatives who can help you if you get ill, by:
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collecting your medicine from the pharmacy
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picking up food for you etc.
This ensures there is no need for you to leave your home and risk infecting others.
For more information on Swine Flu, visit the Scottish Government|.
Be prepared
To prepare for pandemic flu and reduce your risk of catching or spreading the virus you should get in the habit of:
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always carrying tissues
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using clean tissues to cover your mouth and nose when you cough and sneeze
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binning the tissue after use
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washing your hands often with soap and hot water or sanitizer gel
The best way to remember this is: Catch it, Bin it, Kill it.