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Swine Flu Information
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SWINE FLU INFORMATION

Swine Flu...

What it really means

Swine flu is generally mild and currently poses little risk to those that do not have an existing health condition.

If you don’t have an existing health condition, the best thing you can do is take your temperature using a thermometer, obtained from your pharmacist (skin temperature readings are not reliable). Unless it reads 38 degrees or above please stay at home, take plenty of fluids and over the counter flu remedies.

If you do have a temperature of 38 degrees or above please do not come in to the practice.

If you feel unwell ...

If you have flu-like symptoms and are concerned that you may have swine flu:

  • Check your symptoms using the NHS Direct swine flu symptom checker (links to external site).

  • If you are still concerned, stay at home and call your GP, who will be able to provide a diagnosis over the phone.

  • If swine flu is confirmed, ask a healthy friend or relative to visit your GP to pick up a document entitling you to antiviral medication.

  • They will then need to pick the medication up at a collection point your GP will advise on (a local pharmacy or similar).

In the meantime, take paracetamol-based cold remedies to reduce fever and other symptoms, drink plenty of fluids and get lots of rest.

Good hygiene is the best way to limit the spread of this bug. Please remember:

  • To wash your hands regularly with soap and water

  • To use tissues when necessary and throw them away

  • If you do catch flu please stay at home -

  • you will be infectious

You can get more information about flu symptoms from www.nhs.uk
Click here for an information leaflet

The National Pandemic Flu Service (NPFS) is now closed.  Access to antiviral medication, if appropriate, is through your GP who can issue a voucher that can be taken to one of the pharmacies that stock antiviral medication.

 Published 23/7/09