NI Swine flu rate increases

Swine flu continues to rise in Northern Ireland, according to the latest figures from the Public Health Agency.A total of 185 people had the H1NI virus in the last week of December.This indicates an increase of 49 cases on the previous week. 

 

 

The rates are highest in the 15-44 age group. G.P consultation rates also shot up by 45% from 179.5 per 100,000 population.Receiving the seasonal flu vaccine is "the best way" to protect against the virus, according to Dr. Lorraine Doherty, PHA's Assistant Director.She recommends the injection for those in the 'at-risk' group which includes the over-65s and those with a lowered immune system.

 

 

NI Swine flu

 

Addressing concerns over the availability of the flu vaccine, she said: "I would like to stress that vaccines are still available and pregnant women in particular, no matter what stage of pregnancy, should receive the vaccine, even if they received the swine flu vaccine last year."And for those who have already contracted the illness, they have been advised to stay indoors. "If you do get flu this year, our advice is to stay at home and don't spread your infection to others," Dr. Doherty said.

"Rest, drink plenty of fluids and use over-the-counter remedies if they make you feel more comfortable."GPs and hospitals are busy dealing with flu cases, so I would emphasise that people should stay at home and contact their GP only if their condition worsens or if they are in an 'at risk' group or pregnant and not recovering. "Do not visit relatives or friends in hospital if you are sneezing, have a cough or have other symptoms of flu-like illness," she added. Meanwhile, intensive care and high dependency units throughout Northern Ireland are being taken over by flu sufferers. This has led to the postponement of elective surgery for one week to ensure hospitals continue to meet the needs of intensive care patients.

A total of 40% of beds in hospitals throughout the region were occupied by patients suffering from flu and flu-like symptoms on Wednesday morning, Belfast Health and Social Care confirmed.