Swine Flu…Don’t Panic…

You and your employees might be a little concerned about the recent fear gripping the world about Swine Flu…but the Trades Union Congress is telling us not to panic!  Does that make you feel better?

The Trades Union Congress has tried to calm employers around the country urging them not to panic about the possibility of an outbreak of the virus that originated in Mexico.

The TUC are simply informing businesses that they should have plans in place that should be able to kick in in case of an emergency as an outbreak could lead to thousands of people infected around the country.

Worry about the effects on the country…

Rather than employers remaining concerned that their employees will become infected they should instead worry about the rest of the country becoming disturbed as this will affect their business - transportation, banking and communication services will all be affected if the flu breaks out across the country.

That is why the TUC is suggesting that employers start to consider contingency plans to work through the out-break if it occurs rather than stock piling medicines to fight off the flu.

The TUC’s general secretary, Brendan Barber, has highlighted the importance for good hygiene and less panic to see the flu through.  “There is no reason for employers to take panic measures when simple good hygiene and encouraging staff who are sick to stay at home is the best immediate response,” said Barber.

Swine Flu Symptoms

But how will you know if Swine Flu is taking over your office?  According to the NHS the symptoms for the disease are;

•    Sudden fever
•    Sudden cough

However, obviously you can’t start assuming everyone has Swine Flu just because they have a cough or flu - other symptoms for Swine Flu are;

•    Headache
•    Tiredness
•    Chills
•    Aching muscles
•    Limb or joint pain
•    Diarrhoea or stomach issues
•    Sore throat
•    Runny nose
•    Sneezing
•    Loss of appetite

The NHS claims that the symptoms for Swine Flu are very similar to normal flu, however Swine Flu symptoms are often more severe and as we know can lead to more serious problems.

Further NHS Advice

The NHS go on to say that very few people have a natural resistance to the disease and this means almost everyone is at risk - this also means that the flu will be able to spread quickly if it goes undetected in busy crowded areas, often like workplaces, schools and shops.

Furthermore the NHS points out that until a pandemic has been announced and you or your employees are feeling the symptoms mentioned above then they may still only have seasonal flu.

Either way the best thing to do is not to go to the doctor but instead to stay at home and call either your GP or NHS Direct on 0845 4647.

Swine Flu For You?

Have you been worried about an outbreak since the first few cases hit the newspapers?  Do you think the whole thing has been blown out of proportion?  Leave us a comment and let us know what you think about Swine Flu.

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