Basic Hygiene Regime Can Keep Swine Flu away
June 23rd, 2009Swine flu is spreading fast in the world. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has recently announced that it has become a worldwide pandemic. Shortly afterwards, it was confirmed that a 38 year old woman died of swine flu in Scotland.
Nevertheless, Professor Maria Zambon, Director of the HPA’s Centre for Infections, said that the virus is observed to be generally milder than what was expected with H5N1 and has not become life-threatening to most people. The government has also stated that the woman who died in Scotland was suffering from many other health problems, which could have contributed to her demise.
Professor Zambon added that the disease is spreading in an irregular manner, though the more susceptible are found to be the younger people. She said that so many people are falling victim to it because they have not developed immunity to the new virus.
She assured that in spite of most cases being mild, the institute was keeping an eye on its spread around the world and in the UK, considering that flu viruses are not always easy to predict. The HPA’s Centre intends to be prepared with a proper response if the situation gets any worse.
To ensure protection from the disease, HPA’s Centre has recommended that people ensure that all adults and children follow a basic hygiene regime, which includes washing hands often to prevent the spread of virus from hands; cleaning hard surfaces like doorknobs frequently; covering the nose and the mouth while sneezing, preferably with a tissue; disposing of used tissues etc. These simple procedures help in preventing the spread of all infectious diseases and can keep swine flu away as well.
First aid training is essential for all organisations in the UK and for employers, the provision of a fully qualified first aider may help you meet the requirements of the Health and Safety (First Aid at Work) Regulations. The recognition of major and minor illnesses and importance of personal hygiene as part of the first aid courses can be of benefit to your organisation in ensuring your employees remain aware and healthy.












