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Swine flu - basic precautions

publication date: May 1, 2009
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author/source: Anne Coates
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With the World Health Organisation (WHO) putting the swine flu on a level five we should all be more vigilant about personal hygiene.

As the name suggests, swine flu orginated from infected pigs but has now spread to humans in the same way as ordinary flu passes from one person to another, through coughing and sneezing.

Both adults and children should:

  • wash hands more frequently and more thoroughly (singing happy birthday to you through twice gives you the right length of time for handwashing)
  • when soap and water are not available use a hand cleanser
  • cough and sneeze into a tissue and throw it away appropriately
  • when travelling on public transport discouraged children from touching their noses and mouths;
  • make a point of washing hands when returning home.

If you feel ill with flu-like symptoms - a temperature of 38°c or more, cough, runny nose, headache, aches and pains, chills, diarrhoea, vomiting, fatigue - phone your GP do not visit the surgery.

For more information call the National Flu Helpline on 0800 151 3513 or log on to www.netdoctor.co.uk/infections/swine-flu.htm