Swine flu service to close
THE National Pandemic Flu Service (NPFU) is to be closed down as cases of swine flu drop in East Sussex and nationally.
Both the phone line and website of the NPFU will shut off at 1am this Thursday morning, February 11.
Patients suffering swine flu symptoms should stay at home and phone their GP who will offer antiviral medicine if appropriate.
Cynthia Lyons, flu director for NHS East Sussex Downs and Weald, said: "The National Pandemic Flu Service has been very useful in easing the pressure on primary care services during the busiest times of the swine flu pandemic, allowing GPs to focus on those patients most in need.
"However now, as the number of people with swine flu continues to drop, a service the size of the National Pandemic Flu Service is no longer needed, and GPs can start to look after those patients with swine flu on a local basis once again.
"We are confident this will not affect the advice or service that anyone with swine flu will receive, but instead that they can continue to access expert medical help when they need it most."
Swine flu cases have been dropping steadily in Sussex since the end of last year.
Experts will still monitor the situation and the NPFS can be re-activated within seven days if necessary.
One in three people at risk from swine flu have received vaccines in Sussex.
Cynthia Lyons added: "We would clearly want everyone at risk to have the swine flu vaccine to protect themselves, their families and the wider community."
If you have any concerns about swine flu call the Swine Flu Information Line on 0800 1 513513.
Further information is also available on the NHS Choices website at www.nhs.uk
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Weather for Lewes
Thursday 09 February 2012
Today
Cloudy
Temperature: 0 C to 2 C
Wind Speed: 8 mph
Wind direction: North east
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Sunny spells
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