Cases of swine flu falling but jabs are still vital

Latest figures show that 44 people across the North West have died as a result of swine flu, since the outbreak of the virus in April last year. The majority of these people have had underlying health conditions; and health leaders in the North West are urging those who are eligible to have the swine flu vaccine as soon as possible.

Dr Ruth Hussey, North West Regional Director for Public Health said, “It looks like cases of swine flu are now on the decline, which is fantastic news. But I’m concerned that this might put off some people who should get the vaccine from doing so. The virus is still circulating, and if people with conditions such as asthma, heart and lung disease, with weakened immune systems or who are pregnant catch the virus, they can become seriously ill.”

Figures show that 2,720 people in the North West have needed hospital treatment due to swine flu since the beginning of July 2009; 250 have needed critical care; and 48 per cent of hospital cases have had an underlying health condition.

Dr Hussey said, “The swine flu vaccine really is the best protection against swine flu if you have an underlying health condition. The take up rate for the swine flu vaccine has been good, but we want to ensure that as many people as possible who are eligible are vaccinated.”

Young children are also particularly at risk of developing complications if they contract the swine flu virus. And GP practices are rolling out the vaccine to children aged over six months and under five years.

Around one in five people with underlying health conditions and pregnant women who are eligible have had the swine flu vaccination in the North West.

Dr Hussey said, “I think there is evidence that the vaccination programme has had a positive impact on the swine flu virus. Thousands of vulnerable people who were susceptible to the virus are now protected, which has helped to reduce the numbers becoming seriously ill and needing hospital treatment.”

Anyone who thinks they may have contracted the swine flu virus can contact the National Pandemic Flu Service or call 0800 1 513 513 for information or 0800 1 513 100 for treatment.

If you have think you could have swine flu and have chronic lung, kidney or heart disease, are over 65, are pregnant, or if you have a child under one with symptoms, you should telephone your usual GP service rather than use the National Pandemic Flu Service.