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| Swine Flu Update |
| Written by S Hemingway |
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I have received some further guidance about the spread of swine flu which I would like to pass on to you. As you may already be aware, the government have announced that containment of swine flu is no longer possible, with the number of cases nationally expected to increase to 100,000 a day by August. The focus now is on treatment. What this means: • Close contacts of confirmed cases will no longer be given Tamiflu, as they are likely to be repeatedly exposed to the virus making preventative medication ineffective; • Diagnosis of cases will be based on symptoms and done over the phone, rather than through swabs and lab testing; • Vouchers will be given to those who are diagnosed for friends or relatives to get them Tamiflu. The Health Protection Agency are now delegating responsibility for managing swine flu to local NHS trusts. This means that if there is a confirmed case within a school they will no longer perform a risk assessment. Our advice to people with flu-like symptoms remains the same. • Individuals who have been diagnosed with swine flu or are showing symptoms should remain at home and contact the NHS for diagnosis and treatment. • Individuals who have been in close contact with someone who has the symptoms or has been diagnosed with swine flu should continue to go about their normal routine, including attending school or work, as long as they do not have any symptoms. • If any of your parents or carers are concerned about an individual who has pre-existing medical conditions which may make them more vulnerable to swine flu, the advice is to contact NHS Direct or their local GP. It is important to remember that in most cases, this is a mild illness, and most people respond well to treatment. Everyone can play their part by practising good hygiene: • Washing hands frequently with soap and water to reduce the spread of virus from your hands to face or to other people; • Cleaning hard surfaces (e.g. door handles, telephones, computer keyboards) frequently using a normal cleaning product; • Covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, using a tissue when possible; • Disposing of dirty tissues promptly and carefully; and • Making sure children follow this advice. If your child develops any symptoms please follow the guidance and keep them at home but ensure you inform us at school. |
