Swine flu, 28th of June's update

WHO announces GRADE 6 alert

What is PHASE 6 (Epidemic and Pandemic Alert and Response)

The announcement of WHO of raising the alert level to Grade 6 does not mean that the virus is becoming a deadly virus. This only reflects the wider geographical distribution that the virus is acquiring

What about severity?

At this time, the overall severity of the influenza pandemic is considered to be moderate. This assessment is based on scientific evidence. The moderate assessment reflects that:

1. Most people recover from infection without the need for hospitalization or medical care.
2. Overall, national levels of severe illness from influenza A(H1N1) appear similar to levels seen during local seasonal influenza periods
3. Overall, hospitals and health care systems in most countries have been able to cope with the numbers of people seeking care

What can I do?

You can prevent getting infected by avoiding close contact with people who show influenza-like symptoms (trying to maintain a distance of about 1 meter if possible) and taking the following measures:

. Avoid touching your mouth and nose.

. Clean hands thoroughly with soap and water, or cleanse them with an alcohol-based hand rub on a regular basis (especially if touching the mouth and nose, or surfaces that are potentially contaminated)

. Avoid close contact with people who might be ill

http://www.who.int/csr/disease/influenza/GIPA3AideMemoire.pdf

http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/frequently_asked_questions/levels_pandemic_alert/en/index.html

http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/frequently_asked_questions/what/en/index.html

. Reduce the time spent in crowded settings if possible.

. Improve airflow in your living space by opening windows.

. Practice good health habits including adequate sleep, eating nutritious food, and keeping physically active.

What about using a mask?

If you are not sick you do not have to wear a mask.

. If you are caring for a sick person, you can wear a mask when you are in close contact with the ill person and dispose of it immediately after contact, and cleanse your hands thoroughly afterwards.

. If you are sick and must travel or be around others, cover your mouth and nose.

Using a mask correctly in all situations is essential. Incorrect use actually increases the chance of spreading infection.

What should I do if I think I have the illness?

If you feel unwell, have high fever, cough or sore throat:

. Stay at home and keep away from work, school or crowds.

. Rest and take plenty of fluids.

. Cover your nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing and, if using tissues, make sure you dispose of them carefully. Clean your hands immediately after with soap and water or cleanse them with an alcohol-based hand rub.

. If you do not have a tissue close by when you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth as much as possible with the crook of your elbow.

. Use a mask to help you contain the spread of droplets when you are around others, but be sure to do so correctly.

. Inform family and friends about your illness and try to avoid contact with other people.

. If possible, contact a health professional before traveling to a health facility to discuss whether a medical examination is necessary.

Should I take an antiviral now just in case I catch the new virus?

No. You should only take an antiviral if your health care provider advises you to do so. Individuals should not buy medicines to prevent or fight this new influenza without a prescription, and they should exercise caution in buying antivirals over the Internet.

Is it safe to travel?

There are no recommendations for travel restrictions related to the outbreak of the influenza A (H1N1) virus.