Medical Officer of Health advises against “swine flu parties”

01 July 2009

Jersey’s Medical Officer of Health is advising Islanders not to intentionally mix with people who have swine flu in an attempt to catch the virus.

So called “swine flu parties” have been reported in the national media. The idea is to get the virus now before the winter when it could become even more severe.

Dr Rosemary Geller said: “I strongly advise against people deliberately trying to catch swine flu. This will only help it spread which is what we’re trying hard to prevent, especially as we have a vaccine on the way in the autumn.

“Having had flu in the past, I would not want it again. Although this virus appears to be quite mild so far, people are still getting ill with high temperatures and more than 300 people have died around the world. The best advice continues to be to use tissues when you cough and sneeze, and to wash your hands regularly to limit the spread of infection."

Twelve cases of swine flu have been confirmed in Jersey. The latest patient was confirmed today (1 July 2009) and is recovering. All the patient’s contacts have been identified and given Tamiflu as a precaution.

Anyone who has a fever (temperature 38 degrees or more) and flu symptoms, whether they have been away from the Island or not, should stay at home and call their GP for a home visit. It is important that people do not go to A&E as this risks spreading the virus into the hospital.

The flu helpline, which provides general information for the public, is open Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5.30pm and the number to call is 445566. Anyone needing medical advice will need to contact their GP.