Every year hundreds of thousands, sometimes even millions, of people are struck down by influenza in the UK, and it affects different people in very different ways. Of course, some people are more vulnerable to complications than others and this can lead to prolonged absence from work, an inability to look after one self properly when living alone, and in extreme cases can even lead to life-threatening complications.
It is important that people use common sense when noticing the onset of flu symptoms. Taking plenty of rest and drinking plenty of water is a common sense approach, as is having a stock of medicines that can alleviate flu symptoms. But it is also key to do your bit to restrict the spread of the virus where possible.
- Do not go into work if it is not necessary
- Avoid public transport
- Do not go to see your GP at the surgery if possible. If you need to speak to the Dr then arrange a phone call, home visit, or even use the dedicated NHS Direct phone service on 0845 46 47 or use their simple online services via http://www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk/
- Ask someone appropriate to help your children to get to or return from school
- In short, avoid crowded areas, especially confined spaces and crowds of people. The influenza virus spreads fast. By exposing the virus you not only put that person at risk, but also that persons friends, family and work colleagues, some of which may be vulnerable to complications.
If you are an employer, it is important that you look at contingency plans for the likelihood of staff illness. Business Continuity Opens in a new window planning is something that every employer should be aware of and the HSE have a web page that looks at all aspects of the impact of illness on your business and you can view the page here. Opens in a new window
