H1N1 virus, known as Mexican swine flu, has begun to bite deeply in the United Kingdom. The government health authorities have instructed that patients should not attend doctor’s surgeries, but should phone for a consultation. Doctors will diegnose from the converstaion and prescribe as necessary.
There is a good stock of anti-viral medication available at well-manned distribution centres. One medic has died along with a number of other casualties, most of whom had underlying health problems.
The concern is that later in the year the virus will mutate into a more virulent form.
Masks are thought to be little or no defence against infection, but coughing and sneezing are nevertheless the prime causes of the spread of the disease. People are most exposed when confined in public transport, particularly aircraft.
Advice: cough or sneeze into a tissue or handkerchief; stay off public transport; and if you manjfest any of the symptoms (sore muscles and joints, sneezing, a dry cough) stay away from work and others, and seek medical advice..