Monitoring Lincolnshire swine flu situation

Description:

NHS Lincolnshire is continuing to monitor the situation closely following the recent announcement that the World Health Organisation has raised the alert level for Swine Flu to Phase 6.

Phase 6 reflects the global extent of Swine Flu and is put in place when there is a certain level of geographical spread of confirmed cases worldwide and the change in level does not reflect the severity of the virus.

Within the UK we have not seen widespread activity, although there have been a small number of outbreaks, which have been mainly school related. 

NHS Lincolnshire, along with the rest of the health community and partner agencies, has been preparing for the risk of a pandemic flu for the past five years and has comprehensive plans in place to respond to this evolving situation.

Dr Mandy Bretman, Director of Public Health and Partnerships for NHS Lincolnshire, said: "Currently, the small numbers of confirmed swine flu cases reported in the region have only shown mild symptoms and we do not have evidence of widespread community transmission.  However, we will continue to be vigilant and review our position as appropriate - in line with any local, regional and national developments - to ensure the public's health is our highest priority."

The public are being asked to keep good respiratory and hand hygiene to reduce the spread of germs in light of swine flu.

• Catch it - Germs spread easily. Always carry tissues and use them to catch your cough or sneeze.
• Bin it - Germs can live for several hours on tissues. Dispose of your tissue as soon as possible.
• Kill it - Hands can transfer germs to every surface you touch. Clean your hands as soon as you can.
• Make sure your children follow this advice.

People who have travelled back from any of the affected areas and experience flu like symptoms should take the following steps:

1. Stay at home

2. Check your symptoms on http://nhs.uk if possible.

3. Call the Swine Flu Information Line on 0800 1 513 513 to hear the latest advice.

4. If you have taken these steps and are still concerned, call your GP.  Or you can call NHS Direct on 0845 4647 they will give you advice on your symptoms and the next steps you should take.

5. Do not go into your GP surgery or local accident and emergency department unless you are advised to do so or you are seriously ill, because you might spread the illness to others.  Ask a flu friend to go out for you.