Head teachers advised on swine flu measures as schools re-open

As schools across Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale begin to re-open over the next couple of weeks, the NHS is working with head teachers and local councils to make sure that they have the latest advice on swine flu.

The number of swine flu cases across the country has fallen over the past four weeks, but there is concern that as schools open this could be reversed, with a rise in the spread of the infection.

The majority of people who have contracted the virus so far have reported mild to moderate flu like symptoms, although a small group have experienced complications.

Sue Brown, Head of Schools at Rochdale Council said: “The expert medical advice is that there is no reason for schools to remain closed after the summer holiday. We are therefore seeing schools, early-years and childcare settings reopening as planned at the beginning of the new term.”

Dr Sheila Will, Director of Public Health from NHS Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale said: “Children and families can protect themselves from the swine flu virus and a number of other illnesses that crop up over the cooler winter months by following good hand hygiene.

“Use a paper tissue to catch coughs or sneezes and wash your hands regularly, especially before eating.

“Over the next few months we will be working closely with colleagues from Rochdale Borough Council and all local schools to make sure that pupils and their families are kept up-to-date and to promote any campaigns that may help them deal with swine flu over the winter period.”

Anyone who thinks they may have contracted the swine flu virus can contact the National Pandemic Flu Service online at www.direct.gov.uk/pandemicflu on call 0800 1 513 513 for information or 0800 1 513 100 for treatment.

As the number of swine flu cases decreases, the message is that members of the public need to continue to use their own judgement and be vigilant for other illnesses that may start with flu-like symptoms.

If you are diagnosed as having swine flu but your condition suddenly deteriorates or fails to improve after a few days, telephone your GP for advice.

People with chronic lung, kidney or heart disease, under fives, over 65s and pregnant women should telephone their usual GP service as soon as they have symptoms. Parents with children under one year should call their GP if their child has symptoms as soon as possible.