Avian Flu / Pandemic Flu Information
Bath & North East Somerset Emergency Management Unit offer
the following information regarding Avian Flu and Pandemic Flu
Flu Pandemic
The warnings you may have heard about the potential for a new
worldwide Flu pandemic are NOT based on the Avian
Flu threat.
The potential for a Flu Pandemic is based on statistical
probability that the normal Flu virus will mutate to a new strain
for which the body’s immune system has no or little resistance. In
simple terms the immune system works on a learning basis. It
recognises an infection and uses ‘stored information’ based on like
infections to combat the disease. In the case of a Flu Pandemic,
the modified strain is likely to be different to the extent that
there is no template for the immune system to work from. This is
what will lead to rapid spread of infection and increased time in
overcoming the virus.
Department for Education and Skills (DfES) Guidance for school
employers, Governing Bodies, Head Teachers, Children's Service
Employers and Managers.
In consultation with other Government departments and various
external bodies the Government has issued guidance relating to
school closures in the event of a Flu Pandemic. The Guidance can be
found at
http://www.teachernet.gov.uk/emergencies/planning/flupandemic/
Hygiene and Prevention
The risk of spreading any communicable disease is reduced by
employing good hygiene practice. The following advice is as
relevant to a new strain of infection as it is to existing
‘Seasonal’ outbreaks.
Stay Healthy
Take common-sense steps to limit the spread of germs. Make good
hygiene a habit.
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or
sneeze.
- Put used tissues in a waste basket.
- Cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve if you don’t have a
tissue
- Clean your hands after coughing or sneezing. Use soap and water
or an alcohol- based hand cleaner.
- Stay at home if you are sick.
It is always a good idea to practice good health habits.
Eat a balanced diet. Be sure to eat a variety of foods,
including plenty of vegetables, fruits, and whole grain products.
Also include low-fat dairy products, lean meats, poultry, fish, and
beans. Drink lots of water and go easy on salt, sugar, alcohol, and
saturated fat.
Exercise on a regular basis and get plenty of rest.
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