26 June 2009
One more case of Swine Flu has been confirmed in Jersey, taking the total to 10. This latest case is linked to a previously confirmed case, but not to any school. The individual is recovering well. All contacts have been informed and Tamiflu recommended as a precaution.
All the patients who’ve been confirmed as having Swine Flu in Jersey to date have made, or are making, a good recovery.
Consultant Microbiologist, Dr Ivan Muscat, and the Deputy Medical Officer of Health, Dr Susan Turnbull are giving a presentation to GPs and hospital healthcare professionals today (26.06.09) to update them on the current medical advice, and on the international and local situation.
Dr Turnbull says: “We are still very much in the containment phase here in Jersey. That means we are still recommending Tamiflu as a precautionary measure to all close contacts of people with Swine Flu. We hope this will slow the spread of the virus, and help limit the impact on Jersey.
“It is important, for now, that we make every effort towards containment. This phase will continue until we see higher numbers of confirmed cases, as has already happened in cities like London, Birmingham and Glasgow, where Tamiflu is now only being prescribed to people with symptoms.
“The UK’s Chief Medical Officer made an announcement about this yesterday. The UK has the highest number (3254) of Swine Flu cases in Europe (4947), with most cases centred in and around these 3 cities.
The Public Health Department has started distributing posters and leaflets to highlight how good hygiene can prevent the spread of Swine Flu - and of viruses in general. The information is currently being distributed to schools, businesses and community venues.
Deputy Anne Pryke, Minister for Health and Social Services, commented: “My department is gearing up to respond to an expected increase in swine flu cases, as we are seeing elsewhere in the world. For now, I am confident that while Jersey still has only a small number of cases, all practical steps are being taken to limit spread. Everyone is working hard to try to achieve this.”
Islanders are being reminded that people without flu symptoms who have been in contact with a confirmed case of Swine Flu do not need to stay off work, so long as they are taking Tamiflu as recommended. But if you have been in contact with a confirmed case and develop flu like symptoms, you should stay at home and call your GP. People who are ‘contacts of contacts’ do not need Tamiflu, or to take any other precautionary measures.
The Flu helpline, which provides general information for the public, is open Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5.30pm and the number to call is 445566. Anyone needing medical advice will need to contact their GP.
gov.je