Swine flu cases on the up in Hertfordshire
THE number of people being diagnosed with swine flu is continuing to rise. Despite this, health chiefs in the county are seeking to reassure the public, releasing further guidance today (Thursday) about what to do if you suspect you have caught the virus.
THE number of people being diagnosed with swine flu is continuing to rise.
Despite this, health chiefs in the county are seeking to reassure the public, releasing further guidance today (Thursday) about what to do if you suspect you have caught the virus.
A spokesman for NHS East and North Hertfordshire said: "While we do not know exactly how many Hertfordshire residents have developed the illness, the numbers are clearly increasingly rapidly.
"Thankfully, for the vast majority of people, symptoms are mild and they are recovering within days."
Director of public health Jane Halpin said: "People who do develop symptoms such as a sudden fever, cough, a headache, sore throat, tiredness, aching muscles, sneezing, runny nose or loss of appetite may have swine flu.
"You can check your symptoms online on the NHS Direct symptom checker www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk
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"The best thing you can do is stay at home, rest, drink plenty of fluids and take over-the-counter flu remedies such as paracetamol to help relieve the symptoms.
She said if you had taken these steps and were still concerned, you should stay at home and call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.
You could also phone your GP - not visit - and only attend A&E if you are advised to do so by a health professional or are seriously ill.
Mrs Halpin added: ""It is particularly important that you talk to your doctor if you think you have swine flu and are pregnant, very young, over 65 or have long-term conditions such as asthma or diabetes.
