Swine Influenza Advice for the Public
Human cases of swine influenza have been reported in over numerous countries around the world. The World Health Organisation has now raised the alert status to Level 6 and Government advice will reflect the situation as it affects UK. A list of countries affected can be found on the Health Protection Agency website www.hpa.org.uk
What does it mean for the UK?
Based on the science, it was always clear that it was not possible to prevent the spread indefinitely.
On 2 July Ministers across the UK agreed that we would move from prevention of spread to treatment of those with the virus. The NHS will therefore focus its efforts on treating those who have the virus and its complications.
It means that:
- The presence of symptoms rather than taking samples will be used in the main to diagnose the virus.
- The tracing close contacts of those diagnosed with swine flu will stop.
- Antivirals will only be offered to those diagnosed with swine flu.
- People with suspected symptoms should contact their GP by phone or use NHS Direct 0845 4647 NOT attend GP surgeries or hospital A&E Departments
NATIONAL FLU LINE
The National Flu line is now up and running. In conjunction with the web-based information should take some pressure off GP surgeries as enquiries from the public who suspect they have symptoms continue to rise.
The Flu Line number is 0800 1 513 100 – or – 0800 1 513 200
The web site is https://www.pandemicflu.direct.gov.uk
People can still speak to their GP if they have concerns
IMPORTANT
People with underlying health conditions, pregnant women and parents with children under the age of one should all speak to their GP if they have symptoms.
Information and advice
At the present time several thousand cases of swine flu have been confirmed in the UK. While the number of cases in the North West has been low in comparison to the rest of the country, it is anticipated that this will escalate in the coming months. The vast majority of infections in the UK have been mild, and cases have been diagnosed and treated early. This reduces the severity of symptoms, and helps to limit the spread.
The Government has launched a mass public health campaign in the media to warn the general public and are in the process of delivering leaflets households throughout the UK. A copy of the leaflet is available on the “download” section to the right of this page.
The message is simple: “Catch it. Bin it. Kill it.”
A Swine Flu Information Line has also been established.
Please call 0800 1 513 513 or see the NHS Sympton Checker website for further advice on symptoms
What are the symptoms of swine influenza?
Symptoms of swine influenza are similar to those of seasonal influenza, usually a feverish illness accompanied by one or more or more of cough, sore throat, headache and muscle aches. For most people this illness appears to be mild. Infection with this virus is treatable with the anti-viral drugs. Further information is also available on the NHS Direct website www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk
What should I do if I have returned from a country affected by swine influenza?
If you have recently visited one of the countries or areas where human cases of influenza have been identified, it is important for you to monitor your health closely for seven days after your visit to the affected area. There is no need for you to isolate yourself from other people as long as you remain well.
If during this period you develop a feverish illness accompanied by one or more of cough, sore throat, headache and muscle aches, you should stay at home and contact your GP by phone or seek advice from NHS Direct (0845 4647). You should make sure that you tell those from whom you are seeking advice about your recent travel to an area affected. Depending on your symptoms you may be advised that further investigations may be necessary.
If further investigations are felt to be needed you will be advised on appropriate arrangements for you to be tested. This may include admission to hospital. For most cases however, you will be well enough to remain at home. It is important you avoid contact with other people as much as possible until the results of your tests are back. Your household contacts should also monitor their health and follow the above advice if they get symptoms.
What measures can I take to prevent infection?
It is always good practice to follow standard respiratory and hand hygiene and ensure that:
- Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, using a tissue when possible.
- Dispose of dirty tissues promptly and carefully.
- Maintain good basic hygiene, for example washing hands frequently with soap and water to reduce the spread of the virus from your hands to face or to other people.
- Clean hard surfaces (eg door handles) frequently using a normal cleaning product.
- Make sure your children follow the advice.
Is treatment available?
The Health Protection Agency is monitoring the situation closely and working in conjunction with the UK government will make any decision on the need to issue antiviral treatment. Testing has shown that the human swine influenza H1N1 is sensitive to can be treated with the antivirals oseltamavir (Tamiflu) and zanamivir (Relenza).
Do I need to wear a face mask ?
There is no evidence at this time to suggest that face masks need to be worn by members of the public. Available advice indicates that health staff dealing with suspected cases should use face masks.
Can I get swine flu from eating pork?
There is no evidence that swine flu can be transmitted through eating meat from infected animals.
Further Current Information
The Department of Health has released a leaflet which will be delivered to people's doors nationwide early next week. It explains swine flu and how it could spread, what UK governments have done to prepare for a wider out break of flu, how people can protect themselves against flu as well as what to do if they have flu symptoms.
Please keep an eye on normal news channels for updates. The following websites will have regular updates and advice:
