Swine flu is caused by a strain of viruses, known as the H1N1 flu virus, according to the NHS.
It’s similar to normal, more common flu, but symptoms tend to be more severe, and it could be deadly.
After the virus was diagnosed in the UK last week, it’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of swine flu.
One of the more common warning signs of the infection is having particularly red eyes, it’s been claimed.
Having red or watery eyes could be an early sign of swine flu infection, revealed pharmacist and Jakemans expert, Marvin Munzu.
All swine flu symptoms are similar to that of normal flu, including red eyes, but it’s usually more severe.
If your eyes are redder than usual, and you have a combination of other flu symptoms, you could be at risk of the virus.
“The common symptoms to watch out for are similar to those of normal flus,” said Munzu.
“Symptoms normally develop one to three days after exposure to the virus and include watery, red eyes, body aches, cough and sore throat.”
Other common swine flu symptoms include having a runny or stuffy nose, headaches, and fatigue.
Swine flu is more likely to be accompanied by diarrhoea and vomiting, warned the pharmacist.
“Swine flu is more likely to include diarrhoea and vomiting, as well as all the other symptoms from a normal flu.
“Studies show that the swine flu strain infects deeper into the lungs than the normal flu, so symptoms may feel a bit more severe than normal flu.”
If you think you may have swine flu, you should stay at home and rest. Take paracetamol or ibuprofen to lower your body temperature and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
For advice on the best over-the-counter medication, speak to a pharmacist.
But, it’s best to stay at home if you have flu to avoid spreading the infection further.
You should, however, speak to a doctor or call NHS 111 if you think you have flu while already having an underlying medical condition, or if you’re over 65 years old.
The warning comes after a UK boy was diagnosed with swine flu on Christmas Day.
Robert Brennan, 14, is now fighting for his life after the infection, his mother revealed.
Across the Irish Sea, up to four people have died from an outbreak of swine flu, and Ireland’s Health Service Executive (HSE) has warned more people may become infection over the coming weeks.