You will be aware of the most recent media updates around swine flu in India and the government’s move to raise awareness of the same. Ideacts continues to closely monitor government advice and this update gives you further guidance on how you can protect yourself and your fellow workers.

What are the signs and symptoms of swine flu?

The symptoms are similar to “ordinary” flu: characteristically sudden onset of fever, headache, severe weakness and fatigue, aching muscles and joints and respiratory symptoms such as cough, sore throat and runny nose. Many who contract the disease will suffer generally mild symptoms but in a small minority of cases symptoms are proving to be more severe.

· Lethargy

· High fever (102 degrees+) accompanied by chills, aches and pains

· Sore throat

· Stuffy nose

· Nausea and/ or diarrhoea

· Fatigue

What should I do if I suspect I have swine flu?

If you develop symptoms which you believe may be swine flu and do not feel well enough to come to work, you should speak to your manager immediately. If diagnosed early, swine flu is easy to treat, so there is no need to panic.

You can avail leave and the same can be adjusted from your existing leave kitty.

How can I prevent it?

You can create a simple shield of protection against the flu by:

· Washing your hands frequently and thoroughly for at least 15-20 seconds with soap or alcohol-based hand sanitizers, especially after visiting public places, especially hotel restrooms, theatres etc.

· Avoid visiting very crowded public places.

· Avoid touching the mouth, nose or eyes, which are primary modes of transmission.

· Cough or sneeze into a tissue -- dispose it off and wash your hands immediately

· Avoid close contact with sick people, as far as possible.

· If you get sick, stay at home.

· Keep yourself well hydrated. Choose from a range of fluids -- plain water, fresh juices, coconut water or simply a fresh lime will flush out the toxins. Have plenty of hot soups if you have nasal congestion. Stay clear of caffeinated and aerated drinks.

· Eat a nutritious diet and build up your immune system. And in case you're wondering whether you can get swine flu by eating hot dogs or pork, the answer is no -- you can't catch it by eating pork products, cooked or processed! But make sure that the meat you do consume is cooked well and ensure that it reaches an internal temperature of at least 160 degrees Celsius.

Diet to strengthen your immunity levels:

· Consume plenty of lean proteins -- they help the body synthesize antibodies.

· Vitamin C-rich fresh fruit and vegetables naturally boost your infection-fighting capacity.

· Vegetables like cauliflower, broccoli and cabbage contain glutathione, an antioxidant which boosts the body's defense system.

· Avoid fatty foods -- they are difficult to digest and may aggravate gastric symptoms.

· Go easy on sugary foods, which bring down the body's defense capacity.

What are we doing in our office premises to stop the spread?

The below measures have been implemented in Pune already and will be replicated in other offices shortly.

· Frequently used areas are being sanitized e.g. washrooms and eating areas. Office boys to ensure this are done at regular intervals.

· Additional sanitizers to be kept in washrooms please do wash your hands at regular intervals.