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The prevention and treatment of viral respiratory disorders

A briefing from the Board of Science
September 2007

Current campaigns
In the UK there are a number of annual campaigns aimed at informing people about influenza and the need for vaccination, these are particularly focused on at-risk groups.

In England, the DH has launched a poster campaign – Coughs and sneezes spread diseases (read more at the DH website) – aimed at reminding people of simple measures that can be taken in order to stop the spread of infection, and ‘prompt the public about improving their “coughs and sneezing” practices for general health reasons’. [see reference 68] The campaign aims to encourage people to follow a set of cough and sneeze rules to stop germs spreading. The campaign recommends that people should:

• cover their nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing
• use disposable tissues and throw them away in a bin afterwards
• clean hands regularly – especially after coughing or sneezing.

Posters are being distributed to GP surgeries, health centres, pharmacies, libraries, schools and workplaces as part of a wider initiative to increase awareness of good hygiene habits.

In Wales, the ‘Keep Well this Winter’ campaign run on behalf of the Welsh Assembly Government has been launched. As well as explaining influenza and the need for vaccination, this campaign aims to provide over 65s with information about how to keep warm and well over the winter period. [see reference 69]