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Swine flu vaccine: Q&A
Read up on the swine flu vaccine.
* Click here for latest YEP news.
Who will be invited for the swine flu jab?
Anyone aged between six months and up to 65 years that have an ongoing health condition such as; asthma, chronic heart disease, chronic renal disease, illnesses of the nervous system and diabetes.
* Anyone whose immune systems are not working properly due to disease or treatment such as cancer treatment, HIV positive people and people who have had treatment with steroids for a prolonged amount of time.
* Pregnant women.
* People who live with individuals whose immune systems are not working properly.
* People aged 65 years and over who have ongoing health conditions as listed above.
When will the vaccine be available to the public?
GP practices will write to their "at risk" patients during the first two weeks of November inviting them to go for their injections during late November and December.
It is unclear as yet when the vaccine will be available to everyone else.
How is the swine flu vaccine given?
There are two different vaccines which are suitable for different groups of people. Depending on the type being given, people will need one or two doses.
Is it safe for pregnant women?
Yes – tests done in the USA suggest that there are no side effects when given to pregnant women and that it will offer some protection to your new baby.
How do I know if I've got swine flu?
The symptoms of swine flu are very similar to the symptoms of normal flu and include: a high temperature, cough, sore throat, runny nose, severe tiredness, loss of appetite, muscle or joint aches and pains and headaches. Some people may also have sickness or diarrhoea.
* For more information visit: www.direct.gov.uk/pandemicflu or ring the National Swine Flu Information Line on 0800 1 513 513 or if you have flu symptoms ring the National Pandemic Flu Service on 0800 1 513100.
This is free from a landline but mobile phone charges may vary.
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Weather for Leeds
Saturday 19 May 2012
Today
Light rain
Temperature: 7 C to 10 C
Wind Speed: 17 mph
Wind direction: North
Tomorrow
Cloudy
Temperature: 7 C to 12 C
Wind Speed: 14 mph
Wind direction: North east
