As you will be aware from news reports, there is current concern about the swine influenza outbreak in Mexico and the reported cases in the USA and Europe. Symptoms of swine influenza are similar to those of seasonal influenza, usually a feverish illness (temperature above 38 degrees centigrade) accompanied by one or more of cough, sore throat, headache and limb/joint pains. For most people this illness appears to be mild. Infection with this virus is treatable with anti-viral medication.

Public information on the current situation can be found here:
DirectGov: www.direct.gov.uk/swineflu
Health Protection Agency: www.hpa.org.uk
NHS Information Line: 0800 1513513
The World Health Organisation pandemic alert is currently at phase 5. This means large clusters are discovered but the spread is still localized.

Advice on travelling to countries affected by swine influenza is available on the Foreign and Commonwealth Office website, www.fco.gov.uk. The FCO currently advise against all but essential travel to Mexico.

Staff and students returning from countries affected by swine influenza should monitor their health for seven days after their return. If during this period you develop a fever (temperature above 38 degrees centigrade) accompanied by one or more of cough, sore throat, headache and limb/joint pains, you should stay at home, limit your contact with others and contact your GP by phone or seek advice from NHS Direct (0845 4647). You should make sure that you tell those from whom you are seeking advice about your recent travel to an area affected. Depending on your symptoms you may be advised that further investigations may be necessary.

The main points to remember are:
General infection control practices and good respiratory hand hygiene can help to reduce transmission of all viruses, including the human swine influenza:
• 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 face or to other people;
• Cleaning hard surfaces (e.g. door handles) frequently using a normal cleaning product
• Experts have stated there is no scientific evidence to support more general wearing of masks to guard against infections.
• There is currently no vaccine for this new strain, but severe cases can be treated with antiviral medication.

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