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www.northamptonshire.co.ukTHE internet guide to Northamptonshire UKCLICK HERE FOR NORTHAMPTONSHIRE HOTEL ACCOMMODATION | | ||
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18/07/2009 SWINE FLU NORTHANTS - 1400 DOSES OF TAMIFLU ISSUED SO FAR | |||
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| The Department of Health (DH) today announced that to date in the UK there have been 29 deaths of people suffering from swine flu, so far in the majority of cases those individuals also suffered from underlying health conditions. The DH also announced that a national flu-line will be active soon for people with symptoms to call; more details will be available next week. Swine Flu (Sneeze)The swine flu virus H1N1 is a mild form of flu and by 16 July around 1400 doses of anti-viral drugs have been prescribed to people in Northamptonshire with flu-like symptoms. Dr. Sumina Azam, Specialist Registrar in Public Health from NHS Northamptonshire, said: "So far most people have had mild to moderate symptoms and have been able to look after themselves at home. It is really important that people with symptoms do not go to hospitals, Accident and Emergency, GP surgeries or pharmacies where they could transfer the virus to people with other health conditions putting them at greater risk from the virus. People should only call 999 in an emergency. "NHS Northamptonshire is working closely with other healthcare services and there are now 14 anti-viral collection points across the county where flu-friends can collect antiviral drugs after they have been authorised by a GP; We need the public to be aware that anti-viral drugs will not be prescribed from Accident and Emergency in any Northamptonshire hospital." * Check your medicine supplies to ensure you have adequate supplies of paracetamol, and typical flu remedies. * Find a flu-friend - this could be a friend, relative or neighbour who can collect medicines if they are prescribed.
* Check if you are in a 'High risk' group; if you are your symptoms may get worse. Contact your GP if you think you have swine flu. High risk people are defined as those over 65, children under five, people with chronic respiratory, heart, liver or kidney problems, chronic neurological disease, diabetes, or immunosuppression and pregnant women. * Telephone NHS Direct on 0845 4647 or visit www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk to check whether you have the virus; * Information is also available on the Swine Flu information line 0800 1513 513 * You may be asked to then telephone your GP so that your medical records can be considered; * You will be asked a number of questions and you will be advised whether you are likely to be suffering from swine flu and whether you will need to take anti-viral drugs; * Not everyone will need to be prescribed anti-viral drugs. You may be asked to stay at home until your symptoms have passed completely. * Because some people are not currently following medical advice and staying at home whilst experiencing symptoms the virus continues to spread. |
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