Rates of flu-like illness continue to rise consistently but relatively slowly across the UK. There were around 28,000 new cases reported in England and Scotland last week, a 50% rise from the previous week, but still well below the peak of 100, 000 new cases per week reported towards the end of July. The rise has occurred mainly in the 5-14 year old age group, perhaps reflecting the new school term.

This could be evidence of the beginning of the ‘second wave’ of swine flu cases which had been expected. The peak is currently expected to occur sometime between mid October and mid November. It is estimated that between 10-20% of the population are likely to be infected.

Hygiene

It remains important that we all aim to focus on good hygiene to avoid the transmission of the virus.  There are simple measures that we can all adopt:

Use a tissue to cover the nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, dispose of this tissue promptly and then wash your hands.  Do not reuse tissues or use cloth handkerchiefs as this can lead to recontamination.

• Clean hands frequently with soap and water, especially after coughing, sneezing and using tissues. 
• Avoid touching the mouth, eyes and/or nose, unless you have recently cleaned your hands. 
• Hard surfaces that are frequently touched by hands should be cleaned regularly with normal household detergent and water. 
• Hands should be washed on arrival at work and again when arriving home.

Vaccination programme

The GSK vaccine has now been officially licensed by the EU Commission and the first deliveries of supplies to Primary care Trusts are expected from 14^th October earliest. GPs will then start vaccinating the priority groups. The seasonal flu vaccine offers no protection against Swine flu, but can be given at the same time.

The priority groups are:

• Those between 6 months and 65 years who have a medical condition that may be worsened by flu.
• Frontline health care and social staff.  Offshore medics and topside doctors are classed as frontline staff.
• Pregnant women.
• Household contacts of those with compromised immune systems and those aged over 65 years.
• Special arrangements are being made for to include offshore medics and topside doctors in the frontline healthcare staff.

Sick Notes

The DWP has issued guidance to employers regarding sick certification and SSP payments. The current arrangements remain unchanged:

• For the first 7 days employees self-certify
• For periods longer than 7 days a medical certificate is required

However, during the pandemic, to reduce the burden on GPs employers are encouraged to consider other ways of obtaining evidence of employees inability to work instead of requiring a medical certificate.For example employers could decide to extend the self certification period from 7 to 10 days for employees with flu like symptoms. Employers with access to Occupational health services could also use the service to contact staff at home to satisfy themselves that someone is ill and unable to work.

Further information is available on http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Swineflu/DG_180996

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