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FLU UPDATE ADDITIONAL
One more case of swine flu has been confirmed in NHS Forth Valley. The individual, a woman from Falkirk, had been in contact with a case from outside the area. She is being treated at home and she is giving no cause for concern. Her close contacts are being followed up.
This brings the total number of confirmed cases over the last six weeks to 11, with a further 11 possible cases being investigated.
Director of Public Health Anne Maree Wallace said that the Board would stay focussed on isolating and containing cases of swine flu as they appear in the area. Although the World Health Organisation announced a move to flu pandemic Phase 6 yesterday, this does not mean an immediate change to the local approach.
Dr Wallace said:
"For Forth Valley at the present our work goes on unchanged. Our containment strategy has so far been successful so far but we will get more cases. We will remain vigilant and continue to isolate and test as we have been doing.
"A move to Level 6 does not mean that the virus has become more serious, and it is reassuring that so far the vast majority of people contracting the virus are experiencing relatively mild symptoms. It simply means that internationally it is recognised that the virus is widespread and that we can expect more cases.
"What it does mean is that we need to be prepared for these cases as they appear, and to continue to work closely with our partner agencies within the region. The Central Scotland Strategic Co-ordinating Group has been activated so that the various partner bodies in the area – local authorities, police, fire, ambulance and other services - can provide an effective response to the current swine flu situation.
"Everyone can play their part in helping reduce the spread of infection by following good personal hygiene such as washing hands with soap and water and using a tissue to cover their mouth and nose if they sneeze."
Symptoms of swine flu in humans are usually similar to regular human seasonal flu systems. Our advice to the public is to watch out for fever, respiratory systems such as cough or runny nose, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue. If anyone shows these symptoms they should contact NHS 24 immediately on 08454 24 24 24.
NHS Forth Valley is continuing to work closely with partner agencies within the region. More information on the virus is available from the Health Protection Scotland website, on: http://www.hps.scot.nhs.uk/ .