Although press coverage on the outbreak of swine influenza in Mexico has been thorough, some of it has been a little over the top (as it makes for more exciting reading), so we thought it was worth putting this together for our clients.

This information should be useful on a personal basis and for some clients, it may be applicable to share with other members of staff who may have visited any of the affected countries or been in contact with someone who has recently returned.

It may also be applicable to those clients whose business involves looking after people who may have been to any of the affected countries since the issue arose.

What is swine flu?
Swine flu is a respiratory disease, caused by influenza type A, which infects pigs. There are many types, the one in the news is known as A/H1N1. This latest form can be spread from person to person through infectious respiratory droplets (i.e. droplets from coughing, sneezing or talking).

Which countries are affected?
Human cases of swine flu have been reported in Mexico, certain areas of the US, Canada, Spain and Britain. Of course the list of affected countries may change. The official list, compiled by the World Health Organisation, can be found at www.who.int/en/ . Information about planning within the UK can be found at www.hpa.org.uk .

What are the symptoms?
The symptoms of swine flu in people appear to be similar to the symptoms of regular human seasonal flu and include fever, muscle pains, fatigue, lack of appetite, coughing and a sore throat. Some people with swine flu have also reported vomiting and diarrhoea. For most people this illness appears to be mild. Infection with this virus appears to be treatable with certain types of anti-viral drugs (Tamiflu) and (Relenza).

It appears that the virus is capable of causing severe illness. Why the disease appears to be more severe in Mexico is unknown, it may be that other diseases as yet undetected are exacerbating the situation.

I've been somewhere where there are reported cases recently, what should I do?
If you have recently visited an area where human cases of swine flu have been identified, it is important to monitor your health closely for a week or so after your visit. There is no need to isolate yourself from others as long as you remain well.

If you develop a feverish illness accompanied by one or more the following symptoms; cough, sore throat, headache and muscle aches, you should contact your GP or call NHS Direct (0845 4647) straight away and ensure you tell them about your recent travel. Do not just turn up at your local surgery  if you are infected, you are potentially going to infect others!

Early treatment is thought to be important with this virus, so make the call as soon as possible.

If the professionals feel further investigation is required, you will be advised on arrangements for you to be tested, which may include hospital admission. Usually, you will be well enough to remain at home and it is important you avoid contact as much as possible until your test results are returned. Ensure your household members monitor their own health.

How can I help prevent illness?
As the disease can be spread from human to human, it makes sense for all persons to follow the standard respiratory and hand hygiene practices listed. In reality, when ill, this is what we should all be doing all the time anyway.

• Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, using a tissue. Dispose of dirty tissues promptly and carefully;
• Maintain good basic hygiene i.e. wash hands frequently with soap and water to reduce the spread of the virus from your hands to face or other people;
• Clean hard surfaces (e.g. door handles) frequently using a normal cleaning product.

I'm planning to travel, what should I do?
All international travellers should be vaccinated annually for the flu. However, it is unknown if it will offer any protection against the H1N1 strain.

If you are planning to travel to an affected area, wed strongly suggest that you follow recommendations made by the Foreign Office: www.fco.gov.uk/en/travelling-and-living-overseas/travel-advice-by-country/

Should we be doing anything within our organisation?
Yes! Although we do not have a pandemic at the moment, now would be a good time to review your business continuity plan as every good plan should include the possibility.

Key questions you should ask include:

• What are the core functions that are critical to continuing your business?
• What supplies and materials are necessary to maintain your service?
• Who are the essential personnel necessary to continue your business?

For each of these questions, think about:

• How might they be affected?
• What should be done to protect them?
• What alternative options or solutions are available?

Those clients who are in the care industry are likely to already have robust plans in place, as they may be relied on if the UK is affected in a serious way, however, all clients should consider the impact this situation could potentially have on their business. For example; clients who either provide cleaning services or who procure cleaning services, should update their practices to ensure that they include thorough cleans of door handles, handrails etc in common/public areas as required. Or perhaps identify if staff could work uccessfully at home, rather than travel into work.

And finally, someone had to ask, "Can I catch the flu from eating pork or pork products?"

No, but you can get a tapeworm if you undercook it!

We would like to thank our collegues at ahead Start Consulting (asc) for putting this info page together.