HEALTH bosses have urged people in Great Yarmouth and Waveney to continue taking simple steps to prevent illness as the country prepares for a potential second wave of swine flu during the autumn.
HEALTH bosses have urged people in Great Yarmouth and Waveney to continue taking simple steps to prevent illness as the country prepares for a potential second wave of swine flu during the autumn.
NHS Great Yarmouth and Waveney is reminding the public to follow good hygiene advice to reduce their risk of contracting the infection. This includes using a tissue to catch sneezes, disposing of used tissues where germs can linger and regularly washing their hands.
The call comes as the PCT and its partners from across the NHS prepare for a potential second wave of swine flu during the autumn and winter.
Over the past few months, NHS Great Yarmouth and Waveney has continued to work closely with partner organisations to ensure everyone can react effectively - should the predicted rise occur.
GPs have also been drawing up plans to offer immunisation to people in high risk groups, who should wait to hear from their practices for more information.
Dr Alistair Lipp, Director of Public Health for NHS Great Yarmouth and Waveney, said: “The outbreak which took place earlier this year showed us that the extensive plans we have in place to cope during a pandemic are robust and working well.
“Reports suggest the number of cases will rise once more during the coming months - and we are fully prepared to respond to growing numbers of flu-like illnesses, should this become necessary.
“We are continuing to keep the local position under constant review, along with the locations of our anti-viral collection points. This will ensure we can continue to meet demand at all times - even if we see a peak in numbers during the autumn.
“Our advice to everyone in Great Yarmouth and Waveney remains the same - by following simple hygiene advice, you can reduce your risk of catching colds and flu. Make sure you wash your hands and clean all hard surfaces, such as door handles, regularly and dispose of tissues to prevent germs from lingering.”
Anyone who has flu-like symptoms should not contact their GP, but should instead ring the National Pandemic Flu Service on 0800 1 513 100 or visit www.direct.gov.uk/pandemicflu
People should only contact their GP if they have a serious underlying illness, are pregnant, have a sick child under one year old or their condition suddenly gets much worse.
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