16 December 2009
People in Jersey, particularly those travelling to the UK and other areas with high levels of swine flu, are being reminded that the swine flu vaccine is now available to all Islanders from GPs free of any charges.
Although swine flu numbers continue to drop in Jersey, cases in much of Europe and the rest of the world continue to increase, as the Deputy Medical Officer of Health, Dr Susan Turnbull explains: “Through our concerted efforts, with only 3 new cases of swine flu confirmed last week, we are much less seriously affected than most neighbouring countries.
“Across Europe, the number of deaths due to swine flu – many in relatively young, previously healthy people – has reached almost 1400. There has been a steady increase, with 7 times as many deaths per week compared with mid October, and the numbers are still rising.
“For the time being, the swine flu vaccine is still available to all Islanders free of charge. We would advise people to get protected, especially if they’re likely to be travelling to countries experiencing more flu activity than Jersey – which is most other parts of the world.”
So far, almost 40% of the Jersey population have been vaccinated against swine flu. Consultant Microbiologist, Dr Ivan Muscat, said: “I’m extremely pleased that more than 35,000 Islanders have taken up the offer of vaccination and we expect numbers to increase in the run up to Christmas. It is important that people consider having the vaccine as this will help reduce the impact of any second wave in the New Year, especially as people travel back to Jersey.”
Last week, nursery and primary school children received the recommended second booster dose of vaccine, as Dr Linda Diggle, who’s leading the vaccination programme, explains: “Unlike the UK, Jersey has offered the Celvapan brand of vaccine to children of primary school age and pre-school children who are over 6 months old. It’s recommended children have a booster dose of this vaccine at least 3 weeks after the first dose.
“The UK is mainly using the Pandemrix brand. The UK Department of Health has recently advised a change in the Pandemrix dosage, initially recommended as a 2 dose vaccine. Growing evidence has shown that only one dose of Pandemrix is needed for lasting protection of healthy children. The only exception is children in this age group who have suppressed immune systems. They should continue to receive 2 doses. Both vaccine brands are safe and effective against swine flu. “
Booster vaccinations of Celvapan are being offered to pre-school age children who don’t attend nursery in January. University students have also been invited to vaccination clinics.
The Chief Minister, Senator Terry Le Sueur, said: “I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the team who have helped keep the Island protected from the worst of swine flu. A whole range of people from healthcare workers in the hospital and in the community to teachers have been involved. The vaccination programme, particularly in schools, was an incredible operation and one that is unprecedented in Jersey’s medical history.
“I’d also like to thank the local media for helping to keep the public well informed and Islanders for their ongoing support of the Catch it, Bin it, Kill it message and the vaccine programme. I hope this will help us reduce the impact of a predicted second wave of infections in the New Year. ”
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