BUSINESSES and residents across Basildon will recieve advice letters ahead of the anticipated second wave of swine flu.

Earlier this year, a man staying at NHS.uk" target="_blank">Basildon Hospital was the first person with no underlying health problems to die of swine flu in England.

Now Bala Mahendran, the council's chief executive, and director of public health Dr Katherin Gronqvist, have sent out a joint letter.

It includes advice on how to predict swine flu, how to manage sick leave, hygiene precautions that can be taken at work, and advice for specific businesses such as farming, entertainment and sports.

Mr Mahendran said it was the best time to work with the South West Essex NHS trust to limit the dangers.

He said: “At the council, we are working hard to ensure a potential second wave of swine flu doesn’t impact on the delivery of public services.

“Much of what we have put in place is relevant to local businesses, and we were happy to share this advice along with important messages from the NHS.”

Dr Gronqvist said it was crucial everyone knew how to get ready for a potential second wave of the dangerous flu strain.

She said: “Most cases of swine flu are mild, however, it is important everyone takes steps now to limit the impact of the virus.

“To help people remember the key advice, we have produced a leaflet, and we encourage all businesses to promote this advice to their staff.

“We’re working hard to limit the impact of swine flu by planning how to deliver our services, should there be high staff absence.”