Swine flu: health bosses say remain vigilant

Health bosses are reminding people to remain vigilant for symptoms of swine flu despite fewer Rochdale residents collecting antivirals for the virus.

The number of antivirals collected between 24 and 30 July was 1587, while between 31 July and 6 August it was 970.

In response to the reduction of antiviral collection, from Monday (10 August), the antiviral collection points will remain at Durnford Street Clinic, Durnford Street, Middleton and Nye Bevan House, Maclure Road, Rochdale.

However, due to the fall in the number of antiviral drugs collected Callaghan House will not be operating. This situation will be reviewed regularly.

Dr Sheila Will, Director of Public Health at NHS Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale said: “The reducing number of antivirals being collected reflects a reduction in the number of cases in the borough, however residents should still look out for signs and symptoms as we suspect there will be an increase in cases in the autumn.

“The majority of people who have had swine flu so far, have described mild cold or flu-like symptoms, but it is vitally important that anyone who has concerns, or whose condition suddenly worsens or fails to get better after seven days for an adult, and five for a child, contacts their GP as soon as possible.”

People with symptoms should telephone their doctor direct rather than using the National Pandemic Flu Service if:
• they have a serious underlying illness;
• they are pregnant;
• they have a sick child under one year old;
• their condition suddenly gets much worse; or
• their condition is no better after 7 days (5 for a child)