The Fleet Street Clinic in London, which specialises in health protection for news teams in hazardous environments, has assembled one-person travel safety packs for bird flu coverage.

Provisional contents are listed below. The Clinic offers a choice of two types of coverall, in a choice of two sizes (Large & Extra Large) only. Tyvek suits are lightweight, proof against airborne hazards and dust particles, though not against liquid contamination. They are single use (mainly because they cannot easily be disinfected). Tychem is a stiffer, "crinkly" material, proof against liquids. The Tychem suits can be disinfected and re-used.

This Clinic also plans to hold a training session aimed at "trainers" - i.e. those responsible for issuing the packs.

These packs are intended as an option for frontline media staff reporting from places where exposure to avian flu viruses is a possibility.

Provisional costs (ex VAT)
Tyvek kit (single use) - Approx £65
Tychem kit (reusable) - Approx £95

CONTENTS

Protective Coverall (Tyvek or Tychem)
FFP3 Facemasks (3)
Goggles
Overboots (pair)
Antiviral disinfectant (Virkon - sachets or tablets)
Sponge or spray bottle
Nitrile (solvent resistant) gloves (2 pairs)
Clinical waste bag
Alcohol gel handwash (2 x 150ml)
Hard surface wipes (pack of 30)
Transparent plastic pouch

If interested contact

Dr Richard Dawood
Fleet Street Clinic
29 Fleet Street
London EC4Y 1AA
Tel: +44 (0)20 7353 5678
Fax: +44 (0)20 7353 5500
e-mail: rmd@fleetstreetclinic.com

For further information on coverage issues, check the INSI website http://www.newssafety.com/stories/insi/birdfludebate.htm