Major rise in suspected cases of swine flu across Lothians

Published on Friday 2 October 2009 10:15

THERE has been a major increase in the number of suspected cases of swine flu in the Lothians over the past week.

Across the Lothians, more than 550 people reported to their GP with flu-like symptoms – by far the highest number in months.

The local increase mirrors findings across the country, and comes as the Scottish Government announced a number of new developments, including confirmation that the GSK vaccine has now been officially licensed.

The government also said that a specialist hospital in Leicester is to double its capacity to meet the needs of a possible crisis.

Health secretary Nicola Sturgeon added that more surgeries are reporting back regularly on the H1N1 issues, making it easier to compile concrete statistics.

She said: "I am pleased that data is now being received from 71 per cent of Scottish practices. This enables us to present more robust GP consultation rates for Scotland and provides a more comprehensive picture.

"The figures show another increase in the number of people consulting their GP with flu-like symptoms over the last week.

"The proportion of samples testing positive for H1N1 and, as a result, the total estimated cases has significantly increased this week.

"The potential threat from H1N1 remains serious, even if it continues to be a relatively mild virus.

"Vaccination is the best defence we have against the virus and Scotland is well prepared for the vaccination programme. It is very good news that the GSK vaccine is now licensed.

"Simple hygiene measures like frequent handwashing and using tissues can do a huge amount to help prevent flu spreading."

It has been emphasised that the number of people who actually have the swine flu virus compared to those reporting flu-like symptoms was still small. And while Holyrood is awaiting the arrival of the vaccines, NHS Lothian also has a range of plans in place for all kinds of scenarios.

Retired nurses have been put on standby, while student doctors may also receive temporary promotions to administer jabs.

Health chiefs have said in a worst-case scenario that up to 2,000 people a week could die and half the population be off work either ill with the bug or looking after children.

Liberal Democrat health spokesman Ross Finnie said: "The planned vaccination programme should start as soon as possible as the drug is now fully licensed.

"It is not surprising the number of cases has gone up – there is a new method of counting and children have gone back to school."

Anyone who is concerned about flu-like symptoms should continue to contact their GP for advice, or NHS 24 on 08454 24 24 24.