Swine flu advice issued to Express readers after containment becomes impossible
RESIDENTS in the Express area have been issued with advice about swine flu following the government's announcement this week that containing the virus will be impossible.
In Wakefield, so far, there have been very few cases of swine flu.
However, nationally the numbers are growing rapidly. Already there have been more than 7,400 confirmed cases, with hundreds more being diagnosed every day.
Three people in the UK have died from the virus, all three had underlying health problems.
A spokeswoman for NHS Wakefield District said: "It was always understood it would be impossible to contain the virus for ever and scientists now expect to see rapid rises in the number of cases.
"Because of this the Department of Health has decided the time is right to move to what is known as the treatment phase."
The treatment phase means that:
• there will be no more tracing of people who have come into contact with swine flu patients
• antiviral medication will still be prescribed for all swine flu patients who need it and want it (many people will be able to recover from swine flu without the need for antivirals and may therefore choose not to seek treatment)
• antivirals will not automatically be given to people who are in close contact with swine flu sufferers, unless they have other health issues
• the Health Protection Agency will no longer be announcing the number of confirmed cases each day.
Anyone who thinks they may have swine flu should check their symptoms online if possible at www.nhs.uk call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 or the Swine Flu information line on 0800 1 513 513.
Anyone still concerned they may have the virus should contact their GP by phone, but should not visit their surgery or hospital in person.
For more information visit www.hpa.org.uk or for local information visit www.wakefielddistrict.nhs.uk
Have you had swine flu or do you know someone that has it? Get in touch to tell us your story by e-mailing hemsworth@ywng.co.uk
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Saturday 04 February 2012
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