There is laboratory confirmation that a 12-year-old pupil at Downend School has tested positive for virus A H1N1, commonly known as swine ‘flu. On the advice of the Health Protection Agency, the school will be closed for a week as a precautionary measure.
The pupil concerned has recently returned from Mexico and the symptoms so far are mild. Precautionary steps have been taken to minimise the risk to pupils and staff, whose welfare is paramount.
Antiviral drugs were issued to year 7 students this afternoon to reduce any possible spread of infection. The drugs will also be offered to teaching staff and pupils from other year groups who have had contact with the affected pupil.
All involved have also been advised to contact their family doctor if they develop flu like symptoms within the next week and to stay at home. Expert advice suggests that no-one else in any other groups at the school needs to be treated.
Further information is available as follows:
In the first instance, go online and visit NHS Choices for information and frequently asked questions – www.nhs.uk.
Further information can be obtained from the National Swine Flu Information Line – 0800 1 513 513. This telephone line provides pre-recorded information and advice about Swine Flu.
The third line of enquiry for patients and the public is to access to NHS Direct’s telephone service on 0845 4647. Callers will receive a welcome message which advises them what to do if they are calling about Swine Flu. Calls will be answered by trained health advisors. Where appropriate, callers will be transferred to nurse advisors who will use a specially developed algorithm to assess their condition and advise the most appropriate course of action.
The fourth option is for patients and the public is to contact their GP over the phone.
Further information can be also obtained from www.nhs.uk or www.hpa.org.uk.
ENDS