GPs carry on campaign against swine flu

Date published: 08/02/2010

Patients can still get general advice from NHS Direct or telephone their GP if they think they have caught swine flu, after the national flu phone line is closed down.

From 11 February 2010 when the national flu phone line (known as the National Pandemic Flu Service) closes down, patients are reminded that NHS Direct is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year (tel: 0845 46 47) to provide general advice and information. Patients who think they may have caught swine flu should telephone their GP surgery.

Dr. Peter Elton, Director of Public Health for NHS Bury said: “Fewer people are getting swine flu, and most who catch it will recover quickly. Unfortunately occasionally a person will become severely ill or even die from swine flu, this has included people who have been perfectly healthy before getting swine flu. The change in arrangements mean that if you think you have swine flu, telephone your GP surgery. If your GP feels you need treatment, you will be issued with a voucher to collect anti-viral medication from one of Bury’s anti-viral collection points, but get your flu friend to pick it up for you – don’t go in person, to avoid spreading the virus.”

NHS Bury is offering the swine flu vaccination during February 2010 for any eligible adults who may have missed being vaccinated in 2009, or are not able to get vaccinated at their GP surgery.

Dr. Elton continued: "We have had a really positive response to the swine flu vaccination campaign in Bury. There are still many adults who have previously been invited who did not feel able to respond first time round. I would urge these patients to have the vaccine - it’s not too late. People with underlying health conditions such as diabetes and heart disease, and pregnant women are more vulnerable to catching the virus and at risk of experiencing complications. It’s really important to get protected now."

For up to date information regarding swine flu visit www.nhs.uk or call the Swine Flu Information Line (an automated service) on 0800 1 513 513.