Swine fly take-up 'excellent' say health chiefs (From This Is Cheshire)

Swine fly take-up 'excellent' say health chiefs

HOSPITAL bosses have reported an excellent take up rate of the swine flu vaccination less than one week after it was launched at Wythenshawe Hospital.

More than 200 frontline staff there have so far been vaccinated. The Trust is prioritising frontline staff in departments receiving and caring for patients with suspected H1N1 virus, including areas such as the emergency department, the Starlight Children’s Unit, and intensive care.

Darren Walter, clinical director for the emergency department, said: “All frontline NHS staff need to do the responsible thing and have the H1N1 vaccine to protect their patients, themselves and their families.

“As professionals we have a duty to care and protect our patients and this vaccine will stop us passing the virus on. Whilst most people who have had swine flu have so far experienced mild symptoms, there is no doubt that it can cause significant complications in some people.”

The hospital took delivery of the vaccine on October 22.

Anyone who thinks they may have swine flu should contact National Pandemic Flu Service for assessment, on 0800 1 513 513, or use the online service at direct.gov.uk/pandemicflu