SOME members of the public are becoming confused and alarmed over the current flu situation in the Island according to the Public Health Directorate.
Many health care providers in the Island have received calls relating to flu and Public Health wish to clarify that the term "swine flu" is no longer appropriate.
The appropriate term is "seasonal flu" which is caused by three strains of viruses. These are – flu A H1N1 (the former swine flu virus) and flu B. There have also been cases of flu A H3N2 virus.
Flu B is normally a mild disease but this year the virus is causing a more severe illness than usual.
The Isle of Man health service does not routinely test patients for the type of flu causing the illness because from a practical point of view it is deemed "irrelevant" although people who are hospitalised with the illness are tested.
Public Health has said there is no reason to believe that the viruses in the Isle of Man are different to that of the UK and Ireland where the flu death toll has reached 50.
The flu vaccine is scarce but there is no shortage and the Department of Health is in the process of getting further stocks delivered to the Island.
Antiviral medication needs to be taken as soon as possible after the onset of symptoms, usually 48 hours, as it is no longer effective after this time period.
Flu vaccination is recommended for people over 65 and those in the "at risk" groups including those who are pregnant.
Those who are eligible and have not yet received their injection should contact their doctor's surgery to book an appointment.
The Public Health Directorate has advised the following:
- Practice a high standard of hygiene at all times – "Catch it, bin it, kill it"
- Take aspirin, paracetamol or aspirin
- Take rest and drink plenty of fluids
- Do not go to work or send your child to school
- If you feel you need medical advice contact your GP or MEDS by telephone and only attend the surgery if advised to do so. Do not attend A&E or the Minor Injuries Unit (MIU) at Ramsey District Cottage Hospital
- If you develop problems which mean you need to attend A&E/MIU and you have the flu advise the hospitals beforehand so that they can deal with you without putting others at risk
