Microsoft word - sb 09 08 swine flu.doc

Safety Management Consultants Tel 01953 606313 Fax 01953 600211 E-mail [email protected] This months briefing is on the current swine flu pandemic. There is much rumor and speculation about this pandemic and this briefing aims to outline the key points in diagnosis, treatment and prevention. The information is taken from the directgov website and was current in the 1st August 2009. If you require any further advice or information visit http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/index.htm and follow the links. Or call 0800 1 513 100 Diagnosis Flu symptoms can include: As with any sort of influenza, how bad and how long the symptoms last will depend on treatment and the patient’s individual circumstances. Most cases reported in the UK have been relatively mild, with those affected starting to recover within a week If you think you may have swine flu, check your symptoms online by visiting the new National Pandemic Flu Service website, or by calling 0800 1 513 100. If the National Pandemic Flu Service or your GP confirm you have swine flu, you will be told where your nearest antiviral collection point is so your 'flu friend' - a friend or relative who does not have swine flu - can pick up antiviral drugs for you. You should contact your doctor direct rather than using the National Pandemic Flu Service if: you have a sick child under one year old your condition is still getting worse after seven days (five for a child) Vaccine and medication Swine flu is being treated with antiviral drugs such as Tamiflu and Relenza. Vaccine As swine flu is a new virus, a new vaccine had to be developed to deal with it. The first batch of the vaccine is now available, with 60 million doses of the swine flu vaccine expected to be available by the end of the year. The government has ordered enough vaccine for the whole population, but to reduce the impact of swine flu those at greatest risk will be given priority. Antiviral drugs Antiviral drugs work by preventing the flu virus from reproducing - to be effective you need to take them within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms. This means the illness may be shortened by a day and reduce the risk of complications. To reduce the risk of catching or spreading the virus you should: cover your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, using a tissue throw the tissue away quickly and carefully wash your hands regularly with soap and water clean hard surfaces (like door handles and remote controls) frequently with a normal cleaning product The above information should be treated as general safety information (toolbox talk); should you require more detailed or specific advice please contact your safety manager or direct supervisor. “Your Partners in Safety Consultancy” Safety Management Consultants Tel 01953 606313 Fax 01953 600211 E-mail [email protected] I have given the briefing over-page to the staff listed above. Issues should be referred to management for comment. Name……………………………………………… Signature……………………………………………. PRINT NAME Date…………………………………… “Your Partners in Safety Consultancy”

Source: http://www.edward-associates.co.uk/Documents/Safety%20Briefing%202.pdf