Here are a few questions and answers to address the current concerns about swine flu. You can find out more details on the BBC website.
What can I do to reduce the risk?
You can reduce, but not eliminate, the risk of catching or spreading swine flu by:
- Always covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
- Disposing of dirty tissues promptly and carefully.
- Maintaining good basic hygiene, for example washing hands frequently with soap and warm water to reduce the spread of the virus from your hands to face, or to other people.
- Cleaning hard surfaces, such as door handles, frequently using a normal cleaning product.
You can also be prepared in the event you do catch it by:
- Confirming a network of ‘flu friends’ – friends and relatives – who could help you if you fall ill. They could collect medicines and other supplies for you so you do not have to leave home and possibly spread the virus. You will need to nominate one to collect your medicines if you phone.
- Knowing your NHS number and those of other family members and keeping them in a safe place. It is not essential to have your NHS number in order to receive treatment, but it can help NHS staff to find your health records. You will be able to find your NHS Number on your medical card or other items such as prescribed medication, GP letter or hospital appointment card/letter.
- Making sure you have a thermometer and adequate quantities of cold and cough remedies in your medicine cupboard in case you or your family are affected by swine flu.
What is the National Pandemic Flu Service and how does it work?
The
National Pandemic Flu Service is a new self-care service that will give people with swine flu symptoms fast access to information and antivirals.
It is a dedicated website and a phoneline for people to get information, check their symptoms and get a unique number that will give them access to antivirals if necessary.
When you are given your unique access number, you will be told where your nearest antiviral collection point is.
You should then ask a flu friend - a healthy friend or relative - to go and pick up the antiviral medication.
If you think you have swine flu, do not go out to your GP or A&E.
