Swine flu : latest information for parents and children

Read information on the swine flu crisis...

Now the colder weather’s here, experts say cases of swine flu are likely to peak. Hospitals are preparing for a surge in cases of the virus, and those most likely to catch it are adults aged 24-40 and children. The elderly are not as affected as by other strains of flu.

A swine flu vaccine has been available since October 21st and now the National Pandemic Flu Service is available online or by phone on 0800 513 513, providing a checklist to assess swine flu symptoms and authorise access to anti-flu drugs if necessary.

Campaign

You may have noticed the new TV adverts and advertising posters reminding everyone how easily germs from coughs and sneezes can spread and the importance of good hygiene. Make sure you remind your children of the importance of the ‘Catch It. Bin It. Kill It’ campaign (Catch the germs in a clean tissue, Bin the tissue straight away, and Kill the germs by washing your hands with soap and water afterwards).

Remind them to use hand sanitizer when it is available, to wash their hands regularly during the day and ensure they always have a supply of clean tissues with them. Hand-washing is particularly important in schools where children share computers, pens, books and other materials.

You can also visit the e-bug website with your kids, where they’ll find interactive games to learn about good hygiene and beating bugs.

Support

Make sure that your child’s nursery, school, out of school club or any other carer has your address, up-to-date home, work, mobile numbers and your email address as they will need to contact you quickly if there is a case of flu among the children.

It’s worth making a list of ‘Flu Friends’ you could call on who’d be able to run errands for you and would be able to collect antiviral treatment for you if the worst happens and swine flu strikes. A bit of planning now could pay dividends if you find yourself stuck at home nursing a sick child – or out of action yourself.

School Closures

Even if a pandemic is declared at level 6 (the highest level), schools will stay open until told to close by public health advisors. Usually, parents will be told during the day in advance of a closure, or at the end of a school day when the children are collected. If your child’s school is open then you’re responsible for ensuring they attend.

Exams

Exam boards are working on plans to award children GCSE or A Level grades based on their coursework if they’re unable to take exams because of swine flu. If a school is closed for an extended period, pupils will be given work, probably through the school’s computer learning system.

Symptoms

If you or your child suffers sudden onset of flu-like symptoms you should not go to your doctor (because of the risk of spreading the infection). Stay home and contact the National Pandemic flu line.

Leaflet

If you haven’t already, make sure you read the Department of Health’s swine flu information leaflet to remind yourself of the simple, yet effective, preventative measures.

Leaflets were delivered to every household in the country in May, but if you don’t get one you can download a copy here.

There is also useful information for parents available on this link.