NHS Lanarkshire is asking anyone who thinks they have Swine Flu / Influenza A(H1N1) or flu-like symptoms to call their GP or NHS 24 first.
Dr Harpreet Kohli, NHS Lanarkshire’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-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:
- Always carry tissues.
- Use clean tissues to cover your mouth and nose when you cough and sneeze.
- Bin the tissues after one use.
- Wash your hands with soap and hot water or a sanitiser gel often.
There’s a simple way to remember this: CATCH IT, BIN IT, KILL IT.
Symptoms of flu includethe sudden onset of fever, cough or shortness of breath. Other symptoms can include headache, sore throat, tiredness, aching muscles, chills, sneezing, runny nose or loss of appetite.