Swine (Mexican) Flu

Advice and information on local control and prevention

After the Swine (Mexican) Flu was declared the world's first official pandemic in 41 years, the Netherlands has prepared and is continuing to develop its medical defences to suspend the virus in flight.

According to the latest news, the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) is no longer recording local cases of swine flu, based on data that the H1N1 strain is relative to a common winter bug.

Fatalities are rare and only expected to occur among traditional risk groups. Still, it is estimated that around 1 in 3 people in the Netherlands will fall ill to the virus by the end of the year. Thus taking up the adage “prevention is better than cure” our FAQs offer general health advice and information on what the swine flu is, how to avoid it and what the government is doing to combat it.

(Note: This is intended as a guideline only.)

FAQs

What is Swine (Mexican) Flu?

Swine flu is a respiratory disease brought on by a strain of the influenza type A virus (H1N1). It is also known to cause regularly outbreaks of influenza in pigs. Made up of saliva and mucus, the risk of infection is high where people are in close quarters and ventilation is poor. The incubation period (time between infection and the first flu symptoms) is on average 2-4 days.

What are the symptoms?

Much the same as ‘seasonal flu’ – sudden fever (higher than 38 degrees), sore throat, runny nose, cough, headache, weakness and fatigue, aching joints and muscles. If you notice any symptoms it’s advised you inform your manager/colleagues and contact your doctor (huisarts) immediately.

Who is at risk?

Nobody is immune as it is a new virus. Currently in the Netherlands, the average patient age is between 20 and 45 years. However extra precautions should also be taken by the elderly, and people with coronary or pulmonary diseases, diabetes, or low resistance.

Can it be treated?

Yes, to a certain degree. In the Netherlands, doctors commonly prescribe the drug Tamiflu (oseltamivir). It’s important that medication is taken at the first sign of symptoms (within 48 hours) and that the course of treatment is completed.

What preparations is the Netherlands making?

The most vulnerable segments of the population are being vaccinated. In addition, every region and GP in the country has a preparedness plan already in place, detailing action by relief works and hospitals. Antiviral drugs have been stockpiled to provide for the general population in the event of a widespread outbreak.

Is it safe to eat pork?

Yes. You cannot get swine flu from eating pork or pork products. Cooking the meat to an internal temperature of 160°F will kill the virus, along with any others.

How can I protect my family?

Avoiding infection may be a challenge but you can reduce your chances of catching it. The most effective measure is strict personal hygiene. Also, it's advised you:

• Avoid or lower contact with people who already have the flu.

• Reduce/avoid hand contact with eyes, nose and mouth as much as possible.

• Sneeze or cough in the direction away from others.

• Try to use paper towels or tissues and discard straight after wash/use.

• Wash your hands regularly and the inside of your nose with soap and water.  

• Equip your environment with tissues, disinfectants, cleaning wipes and foot covers. You may receive a special prevention package at work.

• Minimise sharing literature (leaflets etc.) that could get infected. Such material will be made available at reception desks rather than open public foyers.

• Make sure rooms are well ventilated, leaving windows open or doors ajar.

• Wear dust masks over the mouth - Take care with wearing in hot temperatures as this can reduce its effectiveness.

• Keep your home clean, wiping surfaces and objects regularly.

More information

• Public information line on Swine Flu: 0800-1351.

• Information line for the GGD (local health authority): 020-555-5105. Out-of-office hours help line: 020-5555-911.

• General information in Dutch, English, Arabic, Chinese, German, Portuguese, Spanish, Turkish and Papiamentu is available on health site of GGD.

• FAQS regularly published and updated on the website of RIVM.

• Travellers to the Netherlands can refer to the Dutch website LCR.

• Contact NVaB (Dutch Association for Work and Business General) for corporate advice.

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