Swine flu may become a pandemic in the UK over the coming months, so now is the time to choose your ‘flu friend’. The national swine flu information leaflet that was delivered to households across the county in May makes reference to people setting up a network of ‘flu friends’.

A ‘flu friend’ can be relatives, neighbours or friends who will collect medicines, food and other supplies for you if you get swine flu, so that you do not have to leave home. Preventing people who may be suffering from swine flu from having to go outdoors will help restrict the potential spread of flu to others.

It is a good idea for each person to identify up to five ‘flu friends’ as if your flu friend is also ill or unavailable then they cannot help you, but having at least one is very important.

A ‘flu friend’ form is now available to help the public record their personal flu friend(s) information and to keep in a safe place in case they are ill. In addition you could consider becoming a ‘flu friend’ to a neighbour who may live alone, family members that might need help, or offer yourself as a ‘flu friend’ through networks that may be set up by local organisations, such as churches or parish councils.

More information and the Flu Friend Form can be downloaded from the PCT website so please click here for more information https://www.oxfordshirepct.nhs.uk/news/Flufriends02July.aspx