The New National Flu Service
The National Pandemic Flu Service is a new self-care service
which will give people with pandemic swine flu symptoms fast access
to antivirals.
It is a new dedicated website (www.direct.gov.uk/pandemicflu)
and
phone line (0800 1 513 100 or 0800 1 513 200
(Textphone)) for people to check their symptoms and get a unique
number which will give them access to antivirals if necessary.
For information only about swine flu, people can call the
National Pandemic Flu Service Information Line on 0800 1 513
51.
Anyone who suspects they have swine flu
should not go to their GP or Accident and Emergency.
People should only contact their doctor direct rather than using
the National Pandemic Flu Service if:
- they have a serious underlying illness
- they are pregnant
- they have a sick child under one year old
- their condition suddenly gets much worse, or
- if their condition is still getting worse after 7 days (5
for a child).
The vast majority of people, swine flu has been mild. Some people
find that they get better by staying in bed, drinking plenty of
water and taking over the counter flu medication.
Be prepared - find a 'flu friend'
Confirming a network of ‘flu friends’ – friends
and relatives – who could help you if you fall ill. They could
collect medicines and other supplies for you so you do not have to
leave home and possibly spread the virus.