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This Update was Posted at 12:46pm 29th April 2009 by Pirate FM:
Cornwall, Britain and the world braces for a pig flu pandemic.
The World Health Organisation has moved the alert from level 4 to 5, the second highest it can be.
Europe's most senior health official is warning thousands could die.
So far though there are 8 confirmed cases in the UK... including a Paignton schoolgirl.
They had all been to Mexico.
But in other countries it has started jumping from person to person, so now our government has launching radio and TV ads to try to keep us safe.
The latest advice from the Health Protection Agency to stop it spreading:
- Covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, using a tissue when possible
- Disposing of dirty tissues promptly and carefully
- Maintaining good basic hygiene, for example washing hands frequently with soap and water to reduce the spread of the virus from your hands to face or to other people
- Cleaning hard surfaces (e.g. door handles) frequently using a normal cleaning product
- Making sure your children follow this advice
The NHS says you can also prepare now and in the build-up to a pandemic by:
- Confirming a network of ‘flu friends’ – friends and relatives – who could help you if you fall ill. They could collect medicines and other supplies for you so you do not have to leave home and possibly spread the virus.
- Knowing your NHS number and those of other family members and keeping them in a safe place. You will be able to find your NHS Number on your medical card or other items such as prescribed medication, GP letter or hospital appointment card/letter.
- Having a stock of food and other supplies available at home that will last for two weeks, in case you and your family are ill.
If you do feel ill, the advice is to isolate yourself and call NHS Direct on 0845 4647 – not to go into your GP's.
You can find out more at: http://www.hpa.org.uk/web/HPAweb&HPAwebStandard/HPAweb_C/1240812255916
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