Swine Flu
Influenza A H1N1 (Swine Flu)
There has been a sustained increase in cases of Influenza A virus H1N1 worldwide. The WHO (World Health Organization) is working closely with public health authorities to minimise the spread of the infection and expects everyone to employ safe practices to help in reducing the spread of infection.
Flu is contracted by close contact with an infected person. The clinical symptoms with H1NI are similar to typical influenza and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some report diarrhoea and vomiting
World Health Organization Statement
At this stage, effective and essential measures include heightened surveillance, early detection and treatment of cases, and infection control in all health facilities. The WHO advise that there should be no restriction of regular travel or closure of borders. People developing symptoms following international travel should seek medical attention, in line with guidance from national authorities.
UK Foreign Office Advice
The UK Foreign & Commonwealth office have upgraded the travel advice to include reference to the H1N1 virus but there is currently no restriction of regular travel or closure of borders as a result of the virus.
Advice for travellers
Preventing the spread of germs is the single most effective way to slow the spread of infections such as flu. To follow are some good practices that will reduce the spread of infections:
follow public health guidance at your destination
wash hands with soap and water; use waterless alcohol-based hand gels when soap and water is not available or after using soap and water
avoid touching your nose, mouth or eyes, to prevent the spread of germs
cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and dispose of the tissue promptly
keep hard surfaces (e.g. door handles, countertops) clean using a normal cleaning solution
ensure that children follow similar advice
In the event that you or a member of your family or party develops flu like symptoms let your representative or hotel receptionist know so that arrangements can be made for you to see a doctor.
Upon return to UK
Information about H1N1 is available at most ports on entry into the UK; there are no other specific processes at ports unless a traveller displays symptoms or reports illness compatible with H1N1
Travellers are advised to monitor their health for seven days after the visit. If you develop a high fever, with cough, sore throat, headache and muscle aches, you should:
contact your GP by phone or call NHS Direct (0845 4647) and inform them of your travel history (do not go to the surgery or hospital – call in advance)
limit contact with other people
cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and dispose of the tissue promptly
wash hands with soap and water
keep hard surfaces (e.g. door handles, countertops) clean using a normal cleaning solution
For further information on H1N1, the UK government has set up a special helpline. The telephone number in the UK is 0800 1 513 513.
July 09
