Swine flu advice

Swine flu is the common name given to a new strain of influenza (flu).

People with swine flu typically have a fever or high temperature (over 38°C) and may also have aching muscles, sore throat and/or a dry cough. In other words, the symptoms are very similar to seasonal flu. Most people recover within a week, even without special treatment.

There are simple steps that everyone can take to help prevent catching colds and flu based on good respiratory and hand hygiene. Always use a tissue to catch your sneezes, throw away used tissues where germs can linger and regularly wash your hands.

Hand hygiene – things people can do to keep themselves well – Catch it, Bin it, Kill it.

• 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
• Making sure your children follow this advice

More information specifically for schools and colleges, as well as information about seasonal flu, can be found by following the links from this page.

The general swine flu information leaflet issued by the Government is attached to this page.

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