 The National Pandemic Flu Service has been launched in England, which offers sufferers access to advice via phone and website. For the vast majority of people who catch swine flu, it is a mild illness.
If you are concerned that you may be displaying symptoms, it is important that you avoid contact with other people as much as possible. You should contact the National Pandemic Flu Service on 0800 1 513 100 or visit the website www.pandemicflu.direct.gov.uk. Certain “at risk” groups, such as people with serious underlying health conditions, pregnant women, and children under the age of one year, who exhibit swine flu symptoms are advised to telephone their doctor rather than use the National Pandemic Flu Service.
Remember: Catch It, Bin It, Kill It. General hygiene can help to reduce the risk of spreading swine flu:
- Covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, using a tissue when possible;
- Disposing of dirty tissues promptly and carefully;
- Maintaining good basic hygiene, for example washing hands frequently with soap and water to reduce the spread of the virus from your hands to your face or to other people;
- Cleaning hard surfaces (such as door handles) frequently using a normal cleaning product.
Further information - external links
Directgov: Swine Flu – everything you need to know: www.direct.gov.uk
NHS Direct: Questions and Advice:www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk
Health Protection Agency:www.hpa.org.uk
Local Government Association:www.lga.gov.uk
NORMIT: Promoting resilience and business continuity: www.normit.org
Business Link:www.businesslink.gov.uk
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