Stop the spread of swine flu

NHS Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale (HMR) is emphasising the need for people with swine flu symptoms to stay at home and not go into GP practices, walk in centres or Accident and Emergency (A&E) departments, after five cases of the disease were confirmed last week.

Local NHS chiefs say that the confirmed sufferers have been treated at home and have either fully recovered or are recovering well.

“A number of people are going into these places with symptoms which could put other patients at risk, especially those in vulnerable groups including children under five, pregnant women and those with underlying health problems,” said Dr Sheila Will, Director of Public Health at NHS HMR.

“If people need support, the NHS will make sure you get it, but by not turning up to these healthcare settings will protect the most vulnerable.

“The most important thing people can do if they have flu like symptoms is to stay at home and check their symptoms either on the NHS Choices website or by talking to a GP over the phone.

“People with symptoms in high risk groups - those with long term chronic illness, pregnant women, over 65s and children under five should contact their GP over the phone as soon as possible to arrange getting anti viral treatment.

“Remember, the best way to prevent the spread of flu is to CATCH IT, BIN IT, KILL IT - sneeze or cough into paper tissues, throw these in a bin and wash your hands thoroughly and often.”