NHS issue advice on swine flu

Jun 24 2009 by Robert Mitchell, Wishaw Press

NHS Lanarkshire is asking anyone who thinks they have Swine Flu or flu-like symptoms to call their GP or NHS 24 first.

Dr Harpreet Kohli, the health board’s Director of Public Health, said: “If you either have or think you have Influenza A(H1N1), you should stay at home and call your GP practice if it is 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday, or call NHS 24 on 08454 242424 if it is outwith this period.. They will give you advice and arrange for you to see a health professional if required.

“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.”

To protect yourself and others against flu, the most important thing is to follow good hygiene practices.

These will help to slow the spread of the virus and will be the single most effective thing you can do to protect yourself and others from infection.

When you cough or sneeze, it is especially important to follow the rules of good hygiene to prevent the spread of germs.

The advice is to always carry tissues. use clean tissues to cover your mouth and nose when you cough and sneeze. Bin the tissues after one use and wash your hands with soap and hot water or a sanitiser gel often.