Swine Flu & HIV

Continuing HIV care during swine flu epidemic

The number of people with swine flu is increasing in the UK. It is predicted that there will be a significant increase in the number of people with swine flu during autumn or winter.

There are some easy steps that you can take to ensure that your HIV care is not affected during the potential disruption to HIV services.

If you do develop symptoms suggestive of swine flu then please do not attend HIV outpatient services.

Instead, you should stay at home and call NHS direct 0845 4647 or the flu hotline on 0800 1 513 100. You should mention your HIV status when asking for advice.

Symptons are as follows

  • An acute-onset illness with history of feeling feverish and temperature more than 38C
  • AND flu-like illness (two or more of the following symptoms: cough.sore throat, runny nose, limb/joint pain, headache)
  • Significant diarrhea has also been described by several clinicians

If you do not have a GP then register with one now. It is important to have a GP as flu vaccine and Tamiflu (a treatment for swine flu) will be available from your GP. HIV services will not provide flu vaccine or Tamiflu. A vaccine is being developed against swine flu and it is likely that this will be available from your GP. You can find details of GPs in your area by calling 0845 4647 or by visiting this website www.nhs.uk

Don’t let your HIV treatment supply get very low before you ask for more. A disruption to services may mean that there is a delay in getting further medication. It is therefore advisable to contact your clinic earlier than usual to ensure that your medication does not run out. Never have less than four weeks supply.

Know what medication you are taking. When you next see your doctor, ask for a copy of your prescription. If there are difficulties getting in to clinic this will help provide another doctor with information on what medication you are taking and may make it easier to obtain supplies from another clinic in an emergency situation.

Ensure that your clinic has up to date contact details e.g. mobile phone number. In an emergency situation routine appointments may be suspended. In this situation your clinic will need your phone number to contact you to rearrange your appointment and ensure you have enough medication.

The following are useful numbers and websites:

www.direct.gov.uk/swineflu
www.nhs.uk
www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk
www.hpa.org.uk

If you have moved address or changed your telephone number recently then please ensure reception [at your clinic] have the correct details.