UK swine flu update May 1st 2009

The current total number of UK confirmed cases of swine flu is now eight, according to a statement released last night by the UK Health Protection Agency(HPA). All eight confirmed cases have been associated with travel to Mexico.

In Scotland, a friend of the newlyweds who returned from Mexico with flu, is waiting for laboratory test results after falling ill. The Chiei Medical Officer for Scotland, Dr. Harry Burns, has indicated its more than likely this will be the first UK case of swine flu transmitted within the UK.

Two of the new cases are from the London area and one is from the North East of England. All have mild symptoms and are responding to treatment at home. People who have been in close contact with the confirmed cases are being traced by the HPA and wil be given anti-viral drugs as a precautionary measure.

Human to human transmission of the virus in the USA has led the WHO to raise it's pandemic alert level to phase 5. This alert level means that human to human spread of the virus has happenned in at least two countries and a pandemic is imminent. It is also a strong signal for countries to implement their national pandemic plans.

Within the last 24 hours, the numbers of suspected cases have risen from 78 to 230. However, this is probably due to the increased awareness of the UK public rather than a sign that the disease is rapidly spreading throughout the UK.

The Health Protection Agency is continuing to monitor events and work closely alongside the UK government. In a statement issued it said that "the agency is well prepared to meet the requirements of phase 5 "

Returning from Mexico?

The Agency advises* anyone returning from Mexico or any affected area who develop a *feverish illness within seven days of their return, should:

• stay at home and telephone their GP, or
• Call NHS Direct on 0845 4647

Inform your GP you have recently returned from an affected area. People will be assessed and, if necessary, testing and treatment will be provided. The Health Protection Agency will also identify any close contacts who will also be assessed and if necessary, given antiviral drugs.

Flu Syptoms to be aware of

• fever
• cough
• sore throat
• headach
• aching muscles and joints
• runny nose
• severe weakness and fatigue

Minimising your risk

Good respiratory and hand hygiene can help to reduce transmission of all viruses, including human swine influenza. These include:

• Covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, preferably with a tissue
• Disposing of dirty tissues promptly and carefully
• Maintaining good basic hygiene - washing hands frequently with soap and water to reduce the spread of the virus from your hands to face or to other people
• Cleaning hard surfaces (e.g. door handles) frequently using a normal cleaning product
• Making sure children follow this advice

More information

On travel - The Foreign and Commonwealth Office www.fco.gov.uk

Swine flu information line 0800 1 513 513.

NHS Direct Flu Symptom Checker : www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk

This article was published on Fri 1 May 2009