Influenza A H1N1 (swine flu) update

What is the current situation?

The latest figures from the World Health Organisation (WHO) show that there have been more than 340,000 laboratory-confirmed cases of swine flu, or influenza A (H1N1), and more than 4,100 deaths worldwide. However, these figures are likely to be lower than the real number of people affected by the virus, as most countries are no longer recording individual cases.

Where are the vaccines available?

Vaccines for influenza A (H1N1) have been licensed in Australia, China and the USA, with more licences expected in Japan and Europe soon. In affluent countries, the number of vaccines available should cover most of the population. Donations of vaccines for low and middle-income countries have been promised by various countries worldwide, and the WHO expects to start distributing these in November.

Is there going to be a second wave?

At the moment, no one is sure whether there will be a second wave of influenza A (H1N1) or how bad it will be. However, data from the WHO show that in the northern hemisphere, the number of cases of influenza has increased and that more people are affected than would normally be expected at this time of the year. In the southern hemisphere, influenza cases have returned to normal levels.

How can I protect myself?

The best advice for everyone to reduce the risk and spread of infection is still:

• cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, and use a tissue when possible
• dispose of dirty tissues promptly and carefully
• maintain good basic hygiene, for example, washing hands frequently with soap and water to reduce the spread of the virus from your hands to your face or other people
• clean hard surfaces (eg door handles) frequently using a normal cleaning product
• make sure your children follow this advice
• if you have symptoms of the flu: stay at home, don't go to work, don't visit your doctor but call him or her for advice

Should I be wearing a face mask?

There's no evidence that wearing a face mask will protect you against the flu virus. However, because the virus can be spread through coughing and sneezing, if you have become infected, wearing a mask may prevent you from infecting other people.

What travel restrictions are there?

The WHO still doesn’t recommend any restrictions on travel.

As a Bupa customer, am I covered?

Bupa provides cover for influenza A (H1N1). The details of the cover will depend on your scheme and is subject to the standard terms of your scheme. At the moment, Bupa doesn't recommend evacuation from any affected areas abroad.

Related information

Swine flu factsheet

Find out what your Bupa International plan covers