Initial UK - Specialists in washroom, cleaning, facilities, and clinical waste services

Swine Influenza Advice

01/05/2009

What is Swine Flu?

Swine flu medical image

Swine flu is a new strain of influenza, a virus subtype H1N1, which derives in part from human influenza, avian influenza, and two separate strains of swine influenza. The World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) has stated that this strain of influenza not been isolated in swine and has been transferred to humans. It is also transferable from human to human. GP's and hospitals across the UK are preparing for a pandemic and the Government is regularly monitoring the emerging situation with support from The World Health Organization.

Symptoms of Swine Flu

  • Fever
  • Runny nose
  • Sore throat
  • Coughing
  • Diarrea
  • Nausea/vomiting

Preventing the risk of spreading Swine Flu

The Department of Health is advising you to protect yourself and your staff by maintaining good basic hygiene to help reduce the risk of the spread of infection.

  • Wash you hands frequently with anti-bacterial soap and water, ensuring your hands are completely dry after washing. Damp hands are a much more effective carrier of bacteria than dry hands.
  • Sanitise your hands following washing, using an alcohol-based hand sanitser.
  • Clean hard surfaces, such as door handles and work benches frequently using a normal cleaning product.
  • If you feel unwell, avoid the risk of cross-infection, by distancing yourself from others.

How to handle infectious waste material

If you handle or suspect you are handling materials, including Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) that has been exposed to the Swine Flu virus, please download the advice guidelines.

Any materials that may have been exposed to the Swine Flu virus must be disposed of correctly by Incineration Only.

How can Initial Medical Services help?

If you have any problems or require any advice please contact us on 0800 030 4005.

We can help provide the following services and products to support your businesses in combating the spread of Swine flu.

News RHS image

How can we help you?

  • 0800 030 4005
  • Clinical & Dental Waste