Swine flu myths - busted!
Wednesday 12 August 2009
We know a few of you are slightly nervous and/or confused about the information flying around about swine flu at the mo.
So to help demystify the rumours surrounding the pandemic, we have put together a short list of myths and facts for you guys.
Need further swine flu myths busting? See the bottom of the page for where to head for further info!
MYTH: I've got a runny nose, I have swine flu!
FACT: Probably not. But if you're hot, with a temperature of 38°C or more and other flu-like symptoms, call the National Pandemic Flu Service on 08001 513 100. If you’ve a child under one, call your GP immediately.
MYTH: I'd be safer if I wore a facemask.
FACT: Wearing a facemask will not stop you catching swine flu. The best advice is to sneeze into tissues and bin them and to regularly wash your hands with soap and water or an alcohol gel.
MYTH: Pregnant women must lock themselves indoors.
FACT: There is no need for pregnant women to stop going to work, using public transport or seeing friends and family. But they should avoid people with swine flu symptoms and wash their hands regularly.
MYTH: The NHS can't cope.
FACT: We have enough Tamiflu for everyone, we’re first in line for the vaccine when it’s ready and the National Pandemic Flu Service will take pressure off GPs.
MYTH: You can catch swine flu from pigs.
FACT: Despite its name, you can't get swine flu from pigs or by eating pork. You get it by breathing it in or touching
something that has the virus on it.
MYTH: We're all going to die!
FACT: Most people will only have mild symptoms and make a full recovery after less than a week. However, some people have sadly died. If you are in a high risk group and have symptoms, call your GP immediately.
For comprehensive information, people can get advice through the national pandemic flu service www.direct.gov.uk/pandemicflu or call the phoneline on 0800 1 513 100 (Textphone 0800 1 513 200) to check symptoms and if necessary be authorised for antiviral treatment.
By Tasha Usefnia