As swine flu cases in parts of the UK reach epidemic proportions, the nation is being given advice on how to prepare itself for the possibility of catching the deadly A(H1N1) virus. People are being told to make sure they have a good stock of paracetemol based, over the counter flu and cold remedies in the medicine cabinet and to choose up to five healthy neighbours, friends or relatives to sign up as Flu Friends.
Duties of a Flu Friend
When a person is diagnosed by his Doctor over the phone as having swine flu, he may be offered antiviral medication such as Tamiflu or Relenza to help him fight the illness. The first duty of the Flu Friend will be to go to the surgery and collect a medication voucher, get the drug from either a pharmacist or a designated collection centre then deliver it to the patient.
The Flu Buddy will then help the victim by ensuring he is well stocked up with food and drinks and making regular welfare checks. This will ensure that the invalid does not have to leave the house and therefore help prevent the virus from spreading. It is important that the Flu Friend doesn’t get too close to the victim to minimise the risk of becoming infected himself.
Identification Requirements when Collecting Antivirals
When a person is diagnosed with swine flu, she will be asked for the full name of the go between who will collect her medicine. The friend will need to take proof of identity for herself as well as proof of identity for the patient. Suitable proofs of identity are passports, driving licenses, utility bills, cheque books etc. It is suggested that these documents are found and put somewhere handy so they are easily accessible.
Basic Catch it, Bin it, Kill it Hygiene Rules
To prevent a Flu Friend or other family members catching the virus, the NHS suggests the following basic hygiene rules:
- Wash hands regularly using lots of soap and warm water
- Clean surfaces regularly. Swine flu germs last about 24 hours on hard surfaces like door handles and work surfaces and about 15 minutes on soft furnishings like cushions etc.
- It is spread by coughs and sneezes so use a tissue to cover mouth and nose when sneezing then immediately put the tissue in the bin. Wash hands straightaway
It is important that all family members, including children, adhere to these simple but effective basic hygiene strategies.
Sources:
- DirectGov
- NHS Website
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