Swine flu message is driven home (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Health service raises awareness of symptoms

9:11pm Friday 21st August 2009 in Local

A major awareness campaign has started to remind people of the symptoms of swine flu and what to do if they have them.

Adverts displaying the ‘Got flu? Stay at home’ message were appearing on buses and at bus and railway stations all over the district from today.

The campaign will complement other activities taking place in GP practices, hospitals and other public places to help people understand more about the symptoms of swine flu, how it spreads and where to get help.

This includes the distribution of a booklet called ‘Worried about swine flu’ which is available through healthcare and council outlets.

Dr Shirley Brierley, consultant in public health at NHS Bradford and Airedale, said: “It’s really important we continue to provide people with information about swine flu and hope this campaign will drive home the message that people with flu-like symptoms should stay at home and contact the National Pandemic Flu Service.

“Using buses and commuter areas such as bus and railway stations will make sure we can get information out to a large number of people.

“Although we have seen cases of swine flu go down over recent weeks, it is really important to continue with the good hygiene measures which will help to reduce the spread of all flu-like illnesses.”

The advertising campaign will appear on more than 40 buses, both inside and out, and also at bus and rails stations, until October.

The key message of the campaign is if you do become ill with swine flu do not go to your GP, A&E or the chemist.

This is because you might spread the illness to others. Instead, go home and call the Swine Flu Information line on 0800 1 513 513.

The National Pandemic Flu Service is where people with swine flu can get anti-viral medicine or receive advice on symptom-relief. The number to call is 0800 1 513 100.

Up-to-date information is also available on Facebook and can be found by searching for NHS Bradford and Airedale.