McGimpsey welcomes independent swine flu review report

The Health Minister has welcomed the independent review of the 2009 pandemic which found the UK response to swine flu to be proportionate and effective.

The Review Chair, Dame Deidre Hine, also makes a number of recommendations in the report to inform future planning and recognises that there is much good practice on which to build.

Mr McGimpsey said: “I would like to thank Dame Deirdre for undertaking the Review and for finalising her report so promptly. We will now consider the recommendations contained within the Report and build these into our future pandemic planning.”

“I welcome the independent Review which has found that our preparations were soundly based in terms of value for money, and reflect the low cost of vaccination in relation to the value of lives saved. We have to remember that, whilst this pandemic was not as virulent as we first feared, for many it caused serious illness and we should not forget those that lost their lives.”

The Minister continued: “It is encouraging that the Report commends the approach taken by the four Health Ministers to the swine flu threat. It notes that the co-ordinated response was effective and allowed the UK to move together at key points of the response.”

“Finally I wish to echo Dame Deidre’s sentiments and pay tribute to those in our Health Service and public health staff who led the response to this pandemic and protected our public.”

Notes to editors:

1. Published alongside Dame Deirdre’s findings is a report by Dr Judith Hulf, CBE on behalf of the Swine Flu Critical Care Clinical Group which outlines the Key Learning Points for Future Surge Planning. The outcome of this work will also be considered further to assist in improving our critical care networks and services on a regional and national basis.

2. The full report can be accessed online.

3. Media enquiries to the DHSSPS Press Office on 028 9052 2841. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Office via pager number on 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.