Electric Picnic swine flu warning

Revellers at the Electric Picnic festival were today urged to bring plenty of tissues and hand gel to help ward off swine flu.

More than 32,000 party-lovers will descend on Stradbally, Co Laois for the three-day music, comedy and arts spectacular, prompting health experts to issue tips on keeping safe and well.

The Irish Pharmacy Union warned people to avoid close contact with people who have a cough or fever.

Dublin pharmacist Fearghal O’Nia said: “Festivals are a time for people to have fun and let their hair down.

“But pharmacists are giving some tips on staying healthy at the festival, especially since we are in the midst of the Pandemic H1N1.”

The IPU said revellers should clean their hands with an alcohol-based gel, especially after coughing, and to turn away from people when sneezing.

Festival-goers taking medication were also advised to bring enough supplies to see them through the three-day event, which kicks off tomorrow.

Revellers were also reminded not to mix drugs with alcohol, to wear sun cream and practice safe sex.