RCOG Statement on Swine Flu

Pregnant women who are concerned about swine flu should take the usual precautions as they would to protect against ordinary influenza.  Ensuring good personal hygiene is key to preventing the spread of the disease.

The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) recommends the following measures to prevent contracting swine influenza:

· Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing and use a tissue 
· Dispose of used tissues promptly and carefully
· Wash your hands with soap and water to reduce the spread of the virus
· Clean hard surfaces like door handles using a normal cleaning product
· Make sure your children follow this advice
· Stay at home if you have symptoms

Should women require more information if they think they have been exposed to the flu, they should refer to the recommended websites (see notes below) and then speak to their GPs and midwives.  If they have flu-like symptoms, pregnant women should seek medical attention.      

The RCOG will continue to work with the Department of Health so that maternity services are prepared to deal with an influenza pandemic.  Current work includes modelling to establish the likely spread of the disease so that appropriate flu planning takes place.  Contingencies exist so that maternity services will be staffed during a pandemic.  Women should note that the NHS has stockpiles of the antiviral Relenza (Zanamivir) specifically for pregnancy that can be mobilised if required.  

According to advice issued by the Health Protection Agency (HPA), the use of face masks will not prevent the spread of swine flu.  The public should be aware of this and not be lulled into a false sense of security when using face masks. 

The World Health Organization (WHO) has stated that it is safe to consume well-cooked pork and pork-based products.  The Food Standards Agency has published similar advice - http://www.food.gov.uk/safereating/animaldiseases/swine/.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office has advised against travelling to affected countries.  More information is available here - http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/travelling-and-living-overseas/swine-flu.