HOW CAN THE GENERAL PUBLIC HELP TO REDUCE THEIR RISKS AGAINST SWINE FLU?
We supply a range of PPE equipment to help reduce the risk of Swine Flu.
FACE MASKS/RESPIRATORS
If used correctly, masks and respirators may indeed reduce the risk of contracting and spreading swine flu. Face masks and respirators should be worn once, disposed of and a new one used according to the World Health Organisation.
Loose fitting face masks are designed to help stop droplets from spreading from the person wearing the mask and to protect the wearer's mouth and nose from splashes. Face masks are not created to protect the wearer from breathing in very small particles. Respirators are made for just that. Respirators are designed to protect the wearer from breathing in small particles and are renowned for their filtering ability and fit snugly on the face so that air is breathed through the filter material. Respirators work best if they are fitted specifically to the person wearing the mask.
Face masks and respirators are most useful for people who are in crowded settings and in close contact with an infected person. They are ideal for use on public transport and in crowds. They will help to protect the mouth and nose from germs and reduce the likelihood of coughing or sneezing on other people.
Health experts note that face masks and respirators should be used along with other precautions such as frequent hand-washing, cleaning surfaces with disinfection wipes and cleaning hands with an alcohol based handsanitiser.
DISINFECTION WIPES
Germs can be spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose or mouth. Droplets from a cough or sneeze of an infected person move through the air. Germs can be spread when a person touches respiratory droplets from another person on a surface like a desk and then touches their own eyes, mouth or nose before washing their hands. Viruses and bacteria can live 2 hours or longer on work surfaces like cafeteria tables, doorknobs and desks. Wipe these
surfaces down on a regular basis with disinfection wipes, these will help you reduce the chance of getting contaminated from these common surfaces.
HAND HYGIENE
Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. Wash with soap and water and for added protection clean with an alcohol-based hand cleaner. We recommend that when you wash your hands with soap and warm water you wash for 15 - 20 seconds. When soap and water are not available, and for frequent hand cleansing throughout the day we recommend the use of an alcohol-based disposable hand wipe or gel sanitiser. If using gel, rub your hands until the gel is dry. Gel does not need water to work; the alcohol in it kills the germs on your hands.
As an added barrier, disposable gloves can also be used to safeguard you against the possible spread of infection.
Information supplied by the “Centre Of Disease, Control and Prevention”
Click here for more information on Swine Flu
Sources of further information:
World Health Organisation - www.who.int
Health and Safety Executive – www.hse.gov.uk
NHS Direct – www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk
