Swine Flu
National Pandemic Flu Service launched
If you believe you have influenza you can now work through a clinical algorithm on the National Pandemic Flu Service website, or telephone 0800 1 513 100 (text-phone 0800 1 513 200) and speak to someone.
What you should do if you think you have Flu
If you are concerned that you or someone you are in contact with are developing flu-like symptoms, you should not come to the surgery. Instead you should:
- Stay at home
- Check the symptoms on the National Pandemic Flu Service website and/or
- Telephone the National Pandemic Flu Service on 0800 1 513 100 (text-phone 0800 1 513 200)
- Telephone the Swine Flu Information line on 0800 1 513 513
If you are in any of the following categories:
- you have a serious underlying illness
- you are pregnant
- you have a sick child under one year old
- you, or your child's, condition suddenly gets much worse
- your condition is still getting worse after 7 days (5 days for a child)
...the National Pandemic Flu Service may prescribe antivirals, in which case you will be allocated a unique reference number which enables someone, on your behalf (a flu friend), to collect antiviral drugs from a number of collection points.
Alternatively, you may be directed to contact your GP, in which case you should mention that you have already spoken with the National Pandemic Flu Service.
If you do not fall into these categories and do not feel particularly unwell, you are unlikely to benefit significantly from anti-viral treatment (tamiflu), and we would suggest resting at home until your symptoms have gone, taking paracetamol and drinking plenty of fluids.
If you are prescribed antivirals
If you are prescribed antivirals, the NHS has set up collection points in this area where your flu friend can pick them up for you. We have listed their opening times and location so you can use the most suitable pharmacy.
What you can do to help
There are a few simple steps you can take to help prevent catching and spreading colds and flu. These include:
- always using a tissue to catch sneezes
- throwing away used tissues
- washing your hands regularly to prevent the spread of viruses
One of the intentions of the new system is to encourage self-care for straightforward cases of influenza. This will relieve the burden on NHS services.
Further information
More information and advice can be found on these websites:
Our Questions and Answers sheet may help to address some of the concerns you may have.
You can dowload Important Information about Swine Flu which contains information to help you and your family.
NHS organisations in Hampshire plan for emergencies and major incidents all year round and all have comprehensive Pandemic Flu Plans in place which are also appropriate for Swine Flu.
We would like to reassure local people that all health trusts in the county are working closely with the Department of Health, the Health Protection Agency (HPA) and South Central Strategic Health Authority.
