'Swine' flu lasts as long as any other flu about 1 to 2 weeks.
Contrary to an earlier answer, unlike our 'normal' seasonal flu, swine flu is LESS likely to affect people over the age of 50, and hence Help the Aged will not be able to help. It is younger people who have contracted the disease.
If you get the symptoms of the flu: aches, pains, sore throat, fatigue, headache with a temperature of 38 degrees or more then stay at home, contact your GP by phone but please, please DO NOT attend your local Emergency Department.