27,000 flu friends

THE number of “flu friends” visiting collection points across the North West to pick up Tamiflu has now reached more than 27,000.
This was revealed as health chiefs repeated guidance for thos collecting the anti-viral drug.
The Health Protection Agency has estimated that there were 110,000 new cases in England last week.
Dr Ruth Hussey, North West Director for Public Health said, “The launch of the National Pandemic Flu Service has helped to ease the pressure on GP practices. Having a flu friend to collect anti-viral medication is a key part of the process to minimise the risk of spreading the virus further; and making sure that if you are feeling poorly, you have someone who can collect shopping and generally keep an eye on you.”
There has been some concern expressed over the fact that children have been sent to collection points as flu friends, to collect medication on behalf of other members of the family; and that people with swine flu are turning up in person to collect their anti-viral medication.
“There is a real issue about being able to verify the identity of someone under 16 years of age, although I appreciate that many young people are sensible and capable” said Dr Hussey. “Our advice is that if you are having problems identifying a suitable flu friend, to contact your local primary care trust. Each PCT is putting in place plans to support people in their local communities who haven’t got a flu friend.”
Anyone who thinks they may have contracted the swine flu virus, should stay at home and contact the National Pandemic Flu Service, either on line (www.direct.gov.uk/pandemicflu) or call 0800 1 513513 for information or 0800 1 513 100 for treatment.
Some of the symptoms are the sudden onset of fever, cough or shortness of breath. Other symptoms can include headache, sore throat, tiredness, aching muscles, chills, sneezing, runny nose or a loss of appetite.