Monday, 9 November 2009
Latest Swine Flu Advice
Important information about swine flu

Last updated 12:44 PM Friday 06 November 2009

Swine flu vaccination has started, with the first doses being offered to people with the greatest risk of becoming seriously ill from the virus. New cases of swine flu in the week to November 5 were estimated at 84,000, up from 78,000 the week before.

Key messages
If you have flu-like symptoms and are concerned that you may have swine flu:
? Read up on swine flu symptoms
? Stay at home and check your condition at the National Pandemic Flu Service
? You should call your GP directly if:
- you have a serious underlying illness
- you are pregnant
- you have a sick child under one year old
- your condition suddenly gets much worse
- your condition is still getting worse after seven days (or five days for a child)

Note: The National Pandemic Flu Service is a self-care service that will asses your symptoms and, if required, provide an authorisation number which can be used to collect antiviral medication from a local collection point. For those who do not have internet access, the same service can be accessed by telephone on:
? Telephone: 0800 1 513 100
? Minicom: 0800 1 513 200

For more information on the National Pandemic Flu Service go to Flu Service ? Q&A
Key actions
Swine flu is spreading fast in the UK. Prepare now by:
? Learning to recognise the symptoms of swine flu
? Establishing 'flu friends' - friends and relatives who can help if you fall ill
? Keeping paracetamol-based cold remedies in the house
? Having a thermometer available so you can check your temperature if needed

Note: If you have elderly or vulnerable neighbours please check on them. They may need your help but be reluctant to ask for it. It is important you do what you can.

Good hygiene
Preventing the spread of germs is the single most effective way to slow the spread of diseases such as swine flu. You should always:
? Ensure everyone washes their hands regularly with soap and water
? Clean surfaces regularly to get rid of germs
? Use tissues to cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze
? Place used tissues in a bin as soon as possible