WHO raise Swine Flu Alert to Phase 6

11 June 2009

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its alert phase for Influenza A (H1N1) from 5 to 6. Pandemic phase 6 means that there are community flu outbreaks in countries in at least two WHO regions of the world. Designation of this phase indicates that a global pandemic is under way.

Phase 6 means this new flu virus could be caught from any affected country although many cases continue to be reported from Mexico and the USA at the moment.

In recognition of the increase of “in country” spread of the new flu, the UK Health Protection Agency and Jersey updated their recommendations for surveillance and management of patients, advising GPs to test anyone aged between 5 and 44 years old with flu symptoms.

Jersey’s Medical Officer of Health, Dr Rosemary Geller, said: “Anyone experiencing flu like symptoms, (fever of 38ºC or more, headaches, dry cough, sore throat and aching joints) should stay at home and call their GP for a home visit.”

There are currently no confirmed cases of ‘Swine Flu’ in Jersey but three possible cases are under investigation. The antiviral drug Tamiflu is effective against this strain of influenza and the Island has enough stored to treat the whole population, should it become necessary. Meanwhile, people are being asked to follow simple hygiene measures to limit the spread of this virus.

These include:

• Covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, using a tissue when possible.
• Disposing of dirty tissues promptly and carefully.
• Maintaining good basic hygiene, for example washing hands frequently with soap and water to reduce the spread of the virus from your hands to your face or to other people.
• Cleaning hard surfaces (eg door handles) frequently using a normal cleaning product.
• Making sure your children follow this advice.

Public information leaflets about the new H1N1 flu have been posted to every household and have been translated into Polish and Portuguese. Copies are available on www.gov.je/flu or from Le Bas Centre, the Customer Services Centre at Cyril Le Marquand House and the Citizen’s Advice Bureau.

A special helpline has been set up to answer Islanders’ queries. It is open Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5.30pm and the number to call is 445566. You can also e-mail your questions to publichealth@health.gov.je or visit www.gov.je/flu for the latest information.