Swine influenza
Update 9 February 2010
The levels of Swine Flu (H1N1 2009) are currently low, with referrals and hospitalisation rates continuing to fall.
Vaccinations programmes continue to be made available for children under 5 years and those in priority groups (including frontline Social Care staff)
During the treatment stage of this pandemic, special arrangements were put in place for antiviral treatment. This included those with influenza like illness to have early access to antivirals and the National Pandemic Flu Service, a self care service allowing patients with suspected H1N1 influenza to be assessed online or by telephone and issued with antivirals if appropriate.
With effect from 1am Thursday 11 February 2010, the Pandemic Flu Service will be discontinued. Both the Telephone and Web Services will be discontinued simultaneously. The Swine Flu information line will continue to operate and will provide recorded information messages directing people to contact GP’s if appropriate and giving information about swine flu and self care. From 11 February 2010 onwards, antivirals will only be authorised via Healthcare professionals.
Briefing from the Local Government Association
Cases of swine influenza A (H1N1) virus infection have been confirmed in a number of countries.
The link below to the Local Government Association (LGA) website provides the latest briefing which contains key messages, the current situation, the World Health Organisation Assessment, advice to the public, information on preventing the spread of equine flu, travel advice and the LGA role.
Swine Flu Leaflet
Please find below a link to the government leaflet about swine flu. The leaflet contains essential information about swine flu and what to do if you think you have the symptoms.
If you have flu-like symptoms and are concerned because you think you have been in contact with someone who may have swine flu, stay at home and contact either your GP or NHS Direct on 0845 4647.
http://www.nhs.uk/news/2009/04April/Documents/Swine%20Flu%20Leaflet_Web%20Version.pdf
Useful website links
NHS Choices (main health information and advice service)- www.nhs.uk
Health Protection Agency - www.hpa.org.uk
Department of Health (information for health and care professionals) - www.dh.gov.uk
NHS Direct - www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk
Foreign and Commonwealth Office - www.fco.gov.uk/en
World Health Organisation - www.who.int/en
Health and Safety Executive (workplace guidance) - www.hse.gov.uk/biosafety/diseases/pandflu.htm
Health and Safety Executive (information about swine flu for employers) - www.hse.gov.uk/news/2009/swineflu.htm
DCSF Guidance for schools about flu pandemics - www.teachernet.gov.uk/humanflupandemic
Directgov - www.direct.gov.uk/en/index.htm
Local Government Association - www.lga.gov.uk
