MAKING PLANS TO FIGHT KILLER FLU

Dec 5 2007 By, Stirling Observer

PREPARATIONS for a potential flu pandemic are being welcomed by a Stirling-based MSP.

Labour shadow minister for public health Dr Richard Simpson, author of the Health Committee (2000) report on pandemics, has heralded the publication of an updated framework to ensure Scotland is prepared for a pandemic.

A pandemic is the spread of a disease such as flu through human populations across a large region or even worldwide, often with devastating consequences.

All the reports from the World Health Organisation indicate that it is not a question of if there will be a pandemic but when.

Dr Simpson said: “The level of preparedness at the UK and Scottish level is recognised as already being among the most advanced in the world.

“The newly-announced measures increasing provision and protection give us the best possible chance of minimising deaths. The realistic assessment of a worst-case scenario is entirely appropriate.

“The time has now come for many detailed local plans to be tested. The role of voluntary organisations such as the Red Cross, WRVS and churches must be clearly spelled out. The creation of databases of retired health professionals in each locality and the provision of training for support roles should be pursued.

“Secondary infections such as pneumococcal pneumonia and staphylococcal pneumonia will have a serious impact. Every elderly person, those with respiratory conditions and some other specific groups are eligible for pnemococcus immunisation and I would encourage residents across the area to ask their GP for that protection.

“We should also ask all community councils how they see their community preparing to cope. It may not happen for many years. A pandemic may be less serious than the Spanish flu outbreak in 1919 but if we are prepared then the effects will be substantially reduced.”

“Catch it, bin it, kill it” is the message from a new Department of Health campaign to help reduce the spread of cold, flu and other viruses.

Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough and sneeze, disposing of the tissue as soon as possible and cleaning your hands as soon you can are important actions that can help prevent the spread of germs.

Research has revealed that people do not understand what a huge difference using and disposing of tissues correctly and washing hands can make in helping to prevent the spread of the common cold and the more serious flu virus.

Most adults suffer two to five colds a year and infants and pre-school children have an average of four to eight.

Professor Lindsey Davies, national director of pandemic influenza preparedness, said: “If we all follow the simple rules of catch it, bin it, kill it the spread of colds, flu and similar illnesses could be reduced.

“In the UK around 15 per cent of the population develop colds and flu each year, with many millions of days lost from schools and work as a result.

“And each year around 12,000 people in the UK die from flu. We all have an important role in preventing ourselves, our families and others from spreading germs, which is why we’re launching this important campaign.”