Mwah, mwah … still not a flu risk

Published on Monday 26 October 2009 19:36

HEALTH Secretary Andy Burnham has been urged to issue a public health warning on the danger of passing on swine flu by kissing.

Labour's Harry Cohen said the guidance should cover "a two-cheek greeting".

Public health minister Gillian Merron said the risk of spreading flu could be reduced by "high standards of personal and respiratory hygiene" but did not specifically warn against kisses. She said people without symptoms should "continue their normal activities".

In a Commons written question, Mr Cohen (Leyton and Wanstead) asked the Health Secretary "if he will issue a public health warning of the risk of transmission of swine flu arising from kissing, including a two-cheek greeting".

Ms Merron told him: "The department will not be issuing a public health warning.

"People can reduce, but not eliminate, the risk of spreading influenza by routinely adopting high standards of personal and respiratory hygiene.

"Those who are not symptomatic should continue their normal activities."

A new ad campaign to promote good hygiene was launched yesterday.