Following WHO’s announcement, the Minister confirmed that the government and the health and social care service are already operating at a heightened state of readiness and that a move to Phase 6 does not trigger any material change in our current response.
The Minister said: “I want to reassure the public that this move to Phase 6 does not reflect the severity of the virus. It does not mean that the infection has become more serious. It means that the World Health Organisation thinks that the virus has now spread more widely around the world with cases being reported in 74 countries and now fulfils the definition of a pandemic.
“Currently in Northern Ireland we only have a small number of cases of swine flu, all of which have recovered or are recovering well. However we do expect to see more cases here. So far in the UK, the disease has generally been mild in most people, but is proving severe in a small minority of cases."
The Minister continued, “We have been preparing for a pandemic for several years and I am confident that we are well equipped to deal with it. We have been working closely with our counterparts across the UK and in the Republic of Ireland to ensure we have the necessary measures in place.
“Our plans are robust and well-rehearsed. At this point in time, as in the rest of the UK, we are following a ‘containment strategy’ - supplying antivirals both to those who develop swine flu and, as a preventive measure, to their close contacts. This strategy has been successful in limiting the transmission of the virus and will continue to be appropriate while we only have a small number of cases. We are however monitoring this very closely and will only change our approach when it is right to do so in Northern Ireland.”
As part of Northern Ireland’s pandemic flu preparations, enough antivirals have been stockpiled to treat 50% of the population, which is currently being increased to treat 80% of the population. Antivirals will help to reduce the severity of symptoms and help make a patient less infectious. Facemasks and respirator masks have also been stockpiled for the use by health and social care staff caring for patients with pandemic flu. These stocks are also being increased.
The Minister continued: “We cannot do this alone. The public must play their part in helping to reduce the impact of this pandemic. My key message to everyone is to carry on as normal but ensure you follow public health advice which has been widely publicised in leaflets, on television, radio and in newspapers.”
“Simple but effective measures which the public can take to protect themselves include covering your nose and mouth when you cough and sneeze and then put the tissue in a bin and wash your hands. The message is simple; Catch it. Bin it. Kill it.”
Acting Chief Medical Officer, Dr Elizabeth Mitchell said that while it was not possible to stop pandemic flu from spreading, its impact can be reduced. She said:
“If you have recently returned from an affected area or have been in contact with a case of swine flu, and develop symptoms of flu, stay at home and contact your GP or Out of Hours service for further advice.
“Every household has already received a leaflet through their doors which will answer many of their questions and concerns. This leaflet emphasises the simple steps the public can take to protect themselves and their families.
“We will continue to ensure that everyone is kept informed of the latest developments and are provided with the advice they need.”
Further information is also available from the DHSSPS website and the NI Direct website
The Northern Ireland swine flu helpline number is 0800 0514 142 and is available 9.00am – 6.00pm Monday – Friday.
Notes to editors:
- Further information on swine flu can be found on the DHSSPS website and the NI Direct website
- The Northern Ireland swine flu helpline number has also been established 0800 0514 142. This is a freephone helpline for those who want further advice on swine flu.
- In addition to the Northern Ireland Swine Flu Helpline number above, there is a national UK-wide information line where you can hear advice on swine flu contact - 0800 1 513 513.
- Press enquiries to the DHSSPS Press Office on 028 90520575. Outside office hours, please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
