Over half of schools have 'confirmed' swine flu cases

Councillor Zulf Ali

When schools in Rochdale closed for the summer holidays on 17 July, 48 of the 91 schools had “confirmed” cases of swine flu.

Parents of children at all schools with confirmed cases have been sent a letter giving guidance.

Councillor Zulf Ali said: "Rochdale Council is working closely with other agencies and will take a decision before the new term starts on whether schools will reopen."

The Government is reportedly considering teaching chidlren via the internet in the event that schools do not reopen after the summer holidays.

The number of cases of swine flu in the borough has increased significantly and as previously revealed by Rochdale Online, swine flu has struck Rochdale Council workers from Telegraph House were sent home after contracting the illness.

Advice for those with swine flu symptoms to stay at home and not go into GP practices, walk in centres or Accident and Emergency (A&E) departments.

Dr Sheila Will, Director of Public Health at NHS HMR said: “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.”