Information on Swine Flu - The Practice plc

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Contact the National Swine Flu Service on 0800 151 3100 or visit www.direct.gov.uk/pandemicflu.

With a steady increase in the number of confirmed cases of people who have tested positive for the influenza A H1N1 (Swine Flu) virus, both nationally and locally, we would like to advise members of the public of the correct process to follow, to receive the right treatment should they present with symptoms. Following these simple steps can help slow down the spread of the virus, as well as reducing the affect on our local health services.

Symptoms of influenza A (H1N1) are similar to those of seasonal influenza, usually a feverish illness accompanied by one, or more, of cough, sore throat, headache and muscle aches.

Advice for individuals who have flu-like symptoms is to:

Stay at home, to limit contact with others and call your GP or NHS Direct on 0845 4647

Please DO NOT go into your GP surgery, or to a hospital, as you may spread germs to others.

Please DO NOT go into A&E, minor injuries, first aid units or the out-of-hours GP service if you have flu-like symptoms or you may spread the flu to others.

Now is the time to choose your 'flu friend'. A 'flu friend' is either a relative or friend in your local community who could pick up a GP's prescription or do your shopping to save you from having to venture out if you catch flu.

Members of the public are encouraged to consider becoming a 'flu friend' to a vulnerable person, such as the elderly or others who may live alone, in your area. Your local parish council or village association may be able to help identify suitable people.

The single most effective action the public can take to protect themselves and others from infection is correct respiratory and hand hygiene practice. These simple steps will have a major role to play in slowing the spread of any strain of influenza.

General guidance

Reduce the risk of catching or spreading flu:

CATCH IT - Always carry tissues and use them to catch your cough or sneeze. Always cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing.

BIN IT - Germs can live for several hours on tissues. Dispose of your tissue as soon as possible.

KILL IT- Hands transfer germs to everything you touch. Dispose of dirty tissues promptly and carefully. Wash you hands frequently with soap and water to reduce the spread of germs. Clean hard surfaces (e.g. door handles) frequently using a normal cleaning product.

The following is the recommended path for accessing information regarding Swine Flu.

1st: Visit the NHS Choices website www.nhs.uk for information and frequently asked questions about Swine Flu. There is also an online flu symptom checker on both NHS Choices www.nhs.uk and the NHS Direct website www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk.

2nd: Ring the national Swine Flu information line (0800 151 3100) or visit www.direct.gov.uk/pandemicflu

3rd: Call the NHS Direct telephone service (0845 4647). Callers with flu-like symptoms, who have internet access, will be asked to try the online flu symptom checker first, if necessary, they will be able to request a call back from an advisor. Otherwise callers are asked to hold to speak to someone who can help.

4th: If you have taken these steps and are still concerned, call your GP.

Download the Swine Flu Information leaflet here