Government To Issue Swine Flu Advice To St Helens Residents

Swine Flu St HelensLeaflets containing information about the swine flu virus will be distributed to households across the UK.


Dozens of people across the country are being tested for the infection, with the first two confirmed cases being Iain and Dawn Askham, of Polmont, near Falkirk, who had been on holiday in Mexico.

The Department of Health also confirmed it is in talks with a number of companies which produce surgical face masks, but would not confirm reports that millions of the masks have been ordered.
People have been advised against all but the most essential travel to Mexico as the outbreak worsens worldwide.

A total of 159 people have died in the South American country as a result of the outbreak.

A DH spokeswoman explained: "The leaflet will be sent out next week, cover the whole of the UK, and will contain information about this flu outbreak and preventative messages."

She added: "We are talking to a number of manufacturers about procuring face masks. We are not in a position to provide further details at this stage."

It is intended that the extra masks will be used by health workers.

The spokeswoman added: "Although we are aware that facemasks are being given out to the public in Mexico, the available scientific evidence does not support the general wearing of facemasks by those who are not ill whilst going about their normal activities.

"We are urgently looking into how we can increase our current stockpiles of facemasks for healthcare workers who would come into close contact with symptomatic individuals during an influenza pandemic."

No comments: