Swine Flu: Information for staff
I think I might have swine flu
If you think you might have swine flu, please contact your doctor or seek advice from NHS Direct on treatment (0800 1513513). Do not attend your GP's surgery unless you have been particularly advised to do so.
If you develop swine flu symptoms at work, please let your manager know you are unwell and go home.
Swine flu and other conditions
Pregnant women
Pregnant employees may be at higher risk of developing complications from swine flu; however they should follow the same general hygiene advice as everyone else. If a pregnant employee develops symptoms of flu, it is important they contact their doctor or NHS Direct as soon as possible, so they can be begin treatment with anti-virals if swine flu is considered likely.
There is no need presently for someone who is pregnant to stay off work or to avoid contact with other people at work.
HIV positive employees
Employees who are HIV positive are probably not at greater risk of catching swine flu, but may be more likely to develop complications such as pneumonia if they do catch swine flu. The HPA advice for someone with HIV is that they should take the same standard precautions as everyone else but seek medical advice quickly if they develop symptoms.
Employees with asthma
Employees who are asthma sufferers are no more likely than anyone else to catch swine flu, although it may affect your asthma if you do. There is no need to stay off work or avoid contact with other people. If you develop flu symptoms contact your doctor or NHS Direct for assessment as soon as possible.
Someone in my household has been diagnosed with swine flu
Employees exposed to people in their household who has just been diagnosed with swine flu, should be aware that there is no need to stay away from work. The employee won’t necessarily fall ill with swine flu. However, please be especially vigilant for symptoms over the next seven days and contact your doctor or NHS Direct for advice if symptoms appear.
University travel
The declaration by WHO of a global pandemic may affect worldwide travel arrangements and entry processes at very short notice. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) website www.fco.gov.uk/en, gives detailed information on how swine flu might affect your travel plans and you should consult the website before travelling and while you are overseas.
If you are travelling to an affected country you should:
- consult your doctor for travel medical advice and further guidance if you have specific concerns
- check the FCO general advice on swine flu and specific travel advice for the relevant country before travelling, FCO website as detailed above