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 documents are needed to be able to collect the antivirals?
The flu friend must show their own ID as well as that of the patient.
The authorisation number and ID information will be checked to ensure it matches the information provided when the assessment of symptoms was completed.
The ID includes:
- a utility bill
- passport
- a credit or debit card
- driving licence
- NHS card.
Do I use the National Pandemic Flu Service if I'm in a high-risk group?
No - you should contact your doctor directly rather than using the National Pandemic Flu Service if:
- you have a serious underlying illness,
- you are pregnant,
- you have a sick child under one year of age,
- your condition suddenly gets much worse,
- your condition is still getting worse after seven days (five for a child).
Who should be wearing a facemask?
The Health Protection Agency (HPA) recommends that healthcare workers should wear a facemask if they come into close contact with a person with symptoms (within one metre) to reduce their risk of catching the virus from patients.
However, the HPA does not recommend that healthy people wear facemasks to go about their everyday business.
Why shouldn't the general public wear facemasks?
Because there’s no conclusive evidence that facemasks will protect healthy people in their day-to-day lives.
The virus is spread by picking up the virus from touching infected surfaces, or by someone coughing or sneezing at very close range – so unless you are standing close to someone with the virus, wearing a facemask will not make a difference.
There are concerns about the risks posed by not using facemasks correctly.
