It was announced by The World Health Organisation (WHO) on 11 June that the flu pandemic alert level has been increased to the maximum of level six.

This decision reflects the geographic spread of the virus and not its severity.

St Catherine’s will carry on as we have being doing while at alert level five. Should the situation change we will let you know, providing regular staff updates on our working arrangements and flu pandemic absence policy.

There will also be updates on our staff intranet, via the Useful Info & Links tab and in the HR Policies folder.

Staff should ensure they continue to follow government guidelines in relation to preventative action.

What are the signs and symptoms of flu?

fever
cough
sore throat
body aches
headache
chills
fatigue
possibly diarrhoea and vomiting

What should I do if I experience flu symptoms during a pandemic?

Please notify the HR team on 01293 447353 (trading staff should notify your manager of your absence after arranging shop cover as usual)
Contact the flu advice line/GP for Tamiflu drug which should help you to recover
Rest and drink fluids
Take paracetemol or Ibuprofen for fever and muscle aches

General information and advice about the flu pandemic is also available from:

the government hotline at 0800 1 513 513
www.nhs.uk
www.direct.gov.uk/swineflu