Swine Flu

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

• If you have access to the internet you can check your symptoms using the NHS Direct symptom checker.
  
  
• If you don’t have access to the internet or are still concerned, call the National Pandemic Flu Service on 0800 1513 100. For those with internet access you can log onto the website at http://www.direct.gov.uk/pandemicflu. The service uses a simple checklist to diagnose whether you have swine flu.
  
  
• If it is thought you have swine flu then the NPFS can give you access to free anti-viral drugs if necessary. You will be given a voucher number and asked to arrange for a ’flu friend’ to pick up your anti-viral drugs from a distribution point.
  
  
• Certain groups are advised to contact their doctor rather than use the National Pandemic Influenza Service; these are: people with serious underlying health conditions, pregnant women, children under one or children whose condition suddenly gets worse and those whose condition is still getting worse after 7 days (5 days for a child).

Health protection advice

General hygiene can help to reduce transmission of all viruses, including the swine flu virus. This includes:

• Covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, using a tissue when possible
  
  
• Disposing of dirty tissues promptly and carefully
  
  
• Maintaining good basic hygiene, for example washing hands frequently with soap and water to reduce the spread of the virus from your hands to your face or to other people
  
  
• Cleaning hard surfaces (such as door handles) frequently using a normal cleaning product.