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Swine Flu: Leeds

Volume 498: debated on Tuesday 27 October 2009

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps his Department is taking to reduce the incidence of swine influenza in Leeds West constituency. (295356)

The Government response to the Swine Flu outbreak in Leeds West constituency has been consistent with the response in other parts of the country. National health service services in the Yorkshire and Humber area are well prepared for a second wave of swine flu, having undergone extensive planning and testing processes, in line with the rest of the country.

People are able to access the National Pandemic Flu Service and be assessed for swine flu symptoms either by phone or by using the internet. If swine flu is confirmed, antiviral medicines are prescribed and can be collected from a number of local antiviral collection points (ACPs) by a "flu friend'. As at 22 October, there is one ACP open in Leeds; this may change in accordance with local demand.

General information on swine flu is also available through the Swine Flu information line.

Individuals with underlying health conditions, pregnant women, and parents with children under the age of one are being advised to speak to their general practitioner if they have symptoms.

Initial supplies of the Swine Flu vaccine are also scheduled to be delivered to acute trusts and primary care trusts over the next few weeks.