Most respiratory infections are caused by viruses. Respiratory tract infections are very common. They are believed to be one of the leading reasons why people visit their GP or pharmacist.

Common respiratory tract infections include the common cold, sore throat (“Strep throat”) laryngitis and influenza. The principal cause of the common cold is the Respiratory Syncitial Virus (RSV), giving rise to symptoms similar to that of the Influenza Virus.

Whilst the common cold is very unpleasant, it rarely causes fatalities. Influenza, however, is responsible on average for 350 deaths per year in the UK. During the last epidemic, in 1976, it caused over 51,000 deaths.

In the last pandemic, in 1918, over 360,000 people in the UK died from influenza.

On June 11th 2009 the World Health Organisation announced that the Type A Influenza Virus (H1N1), commonly known as Swine Flu, had reached pandemic proportions.

During the first wave of influenza in July, over 100,000 people each week were diagnosed with Swine Flu. The second wave is now underway – and people are worried. Parents worry about their children. Children worry about their elderly parents. Husbands worry about their pregnant wives. Employers worry about their employees – and the ability to keep their business going with staff in bed at home.

The SD Influenza Screening Test can quickly distinguish between the common cold and Influenza, including Influenza caused by the Swine Flu sub-type. It takes only 10 minutes, using a nasal swab, and will lead to a swift decision on the best course of treatment. And in most cases, give peace of mind – during the first wave of Swine Flu in the summer, over 93% of people calling the National Pandemic Flu Helpline turned out to have a summer cold!

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