Saturday 13 June 2009

To panic or not

Pandemic - well WHO has finally decided.
Seems this pandemic (yes there have been memorable others) is somewhat selective. Teens to mid 50's are current target group.
Now here is a thought - that age group involves the majority of the workforce. Could be a compounding of the current economic crisis through workplace absenteeism and deaths.

Well one thing is for sure - don't panic! (and that is straight from "The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy")
Advice is in general terms - don't sneeze or cough into the open air, do dispose of used tissues promptly and properly, clean hands and surfaces.

Got it? - stay home and use things like aspirin and paracetamol to control symptoms.
Stay home until you are fully well.
Call for help if you really feel it is necessary - there are anti-viral drugs to help control symptoms.
Don't go to your local A&E facility, as you will most likely be directed elsewhere.

Help prevent spread by not shuffling into work when you feel unwell. Stay away from crowded areas until you are recovered, and that includes public transport.

How come I know a bit about this - well, survived 3 pandemics, and have first-hand experience in the current pandemic control planning processes - not that I can claim to be an expert.