Blossoms Healthcare continues to monitor the 'Swine Flu' outbreak.

As you will most likely know, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised the pandemic risk level to 'Phase 5', which indicates that a pandemic is "imminent".  This note is intended to provide a short professional opinion to help you keep your employees well informed and protect your business.

• The situation continues to evolve rapidly.  As of 18:00 GMT, 29 April 2009, nine countries have offically reported 148 cases of swine influenza A/H1N1 infection.
• The United States Government has reported 91 laboratory confirmed human cases, with one death.  Mexico has reported 26 confirmed human cases of infection including seven deaths.
• Although the specturm of the disease is still unclear, the mortality rate outside Mexico is low and is comparable with 'seasonal flu'.
• Raising the pandemic risk level to Phase 5 is designed to prevent the virus "gaining a foothold".  If your business has a 'pandemic preparedness plan' it should now be activated.
• Considered advice remains that standard infection control measures are the most senisble steps to take; maintaining personal hygiene, avoiding obviously sick people, avoiding infected areas and seeking medical support if infection presents.
• If symptoms present employees should call the National Flu Helpline (number expected to be published imminently, alternatively call NHS Direct on 0845 4547), isolate themselves as situations allow and not travel to work if feeling unwell.
• The tramsission of the virus is comparable with 'seasonal flu' and as such is likely to require close contact for 'droplet' infection to occur.
• Personal protective equipment such as face masks may be beneficial, although there is very little clinical evidence to support their effectiveness outside controlled environments such as hospitals.
• 'Tamiflu' is effective against the virus, however, should only be prescribed to people with symptoms.
• If your business does not already hold secured supplies of 'Tamiflu' it is highly unlikely it can be sourced.  Avoid purchasing 'Tamiflu' from unauthorised sources.
• As with 'seasonal flu' those with existing chronic conditions may be more susceptible to complications arising from infection.

The best advice to pass to employees is to remain calm and ensure sensible steps are taken to ensure self-protection.  It is important to remember that the increase in confirmed cases in the last few days has been low and that outside Mexico the mortality rate associated with the virus is low.

Blossoms' occupational health team are on hand to provide advice and guidance if required and can be reached on 020 7332 6235.