RCGP: UK is Prepared for Flu Pandemic
12th June 2009
RCGP Honorary Secretary Dr Maureen Baker
has reassured patients after the WHO’s declaration of a global flu
pandemic.
“This does not mean that patients are in any
more danger, or that the virus has become any more harmful. The
majority of H1N1 cases will get a nasty dose of flu and recover
within a week or two.”
“Planning for emergencies such as a flu
pandemic has been a priority for GPs and surgeries,” said Dr Baker.
“The RCGP and the BMA have issued joint guidance and our plans are
well developed and ready to put into action at short notice.”
“Patients worried they have symptoms should
stay at home and consult the
online symptom checker on NHS Direct or call the swine flu
information line on 0800 1513 513. If they are still concerned,
they should call the GP or NHS Direct on 0845
4647. This also applies to their household members.”
“We've also been working with the government's
emergency planning experts for several years to ensure that our
procedures are aligned and co-ordinated. We will be carefully
monitoring the situation as it develops and patients can be assured
that we are as well prepared as we can be to handle the
situation.”
FURTHER INFORMATION
RCGP Press office – 020 7344 3136
Out of hours: 07885 958 632
press@rcgp.org.uk