Scotland’s Latest H1N1 Flu Report Urges Citizen To Protect Themselves

The latest figures, from Health Protection Scotland, about the incidence of influenza A (H1N1) in Scotland have been published today.

The findings are:

• A rate of GP consultations for flu-like illnesses – not necessarily H1N1 – across Scotland of 119.4 per 100,000. This is a small increase from last week’s figure of 114.2
• The number of community samples that tested positive for H1N1 is similar to last week at 43 per cent.
• These rates suggest that an estimated figure of 7,400 people have consulted their GP. However, taking account of the number of people having H1N1 but not consulting their GP, HPS estimate that around 21,200 people have contracted H1N1 in the past week. Both of these figures represent a decrease from last week.
• As of November 16, there have been 969 people with influenza A (H1N1) hospitalised since the start of the outbreak. 128 people have required hospital admission in the last week and, as of yesterday, there were 100 in hospital in Scotland.
• There have been 38 deaths linked to influenza A (H1N1) since the start of the outbreak.
• During the past week, higher than normal pupil absence rates due to ILI have been reported in around two dozen schools across Scotland.

Speaking about the weekly reported figures, Ms Sturgeon said:

“This week’s figures show a slight increase in the number of people consulting their GP with flu-like symptoms but a slight decrease in the total number of estimated cases and the number of positive samples.

“The trend to the figures is relatively stable this week, and although they can fluctuate, we are prepared for any possible rise in cases throughout winter. This will be helped when the full impact of the vaccination programme is felt.

“In the meantime, I would urge people to do everything they can to protect themselves, including getting any medical advice they feel necessary, maintaining strict hygiene levels and taking advantage of the vaccination programme.

“The vaccination programme is well underway, and I would ask everyone who is in the priority groups to accept the vaccine when invited to do so by their GP.”

Anyone who is concerned about flu-like symptoms should continue to contact their GP for advice, or NHS 24 on 08454 24 24 24. Further information on the vaccine programme is available via the new Scottish Swine Flu Vaccination Helpline on 08000 28 28 16.

Topics: doctor visit, Governance, government, H1N1, health care, hospital, hygiene, outbreak, Scotland, Swine Flu

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