Pressure on the NHS is escalating. We were told at the outset of this pandemic that Britain was well prepared and would weather the storm better than most. I hope this is right, but have we not heard similar messages from this Government before?
Preparations were delayed by the Treasury taking seven months to approve the flu helpline, which has put GPs under even more pressure as the first port of call. But just as the pandemic hit 100,000 new cases last week, the European Working Time directive kicks in limiting doctors to a 48 hour week from next Saturday.
I am concerned about the number of critical care beds available and the Government's lack of planning for an increase in the number of people needing hospital care. One lady with complications has already been flown to Sweden for treatment.
The Government must set out how it will license and distribute the vaccine once it becomes available in September, and which groups will be vaccinated first.
In Shropshire people worried about symptoms should follow NHS guidance. Anyone who thinks they may have swine flu, should first go online and check their symptoms at www.pandemicflu.direct.gov.uk or call the swine flu information line on 0800 1513 513.
While not qualified to give medical advice, I repeat NHS guidance to those exhibiting symptoms who are over 65, or under 5, or pregnant or those with underlying health problems such as asthma, diabetes, chronic heart, lung, kidney or neurological disease, to call your GP, who can provide a diagnosis over the phone. On confirmed diagnosis, an authorisation voucher will be given to allow someone who can act as a 'flu friend' to take to an antiviral collection point to pick up anti-virals.
