Swine flu at Castle Hill School

Jul 11 2009 By Anne-Marie Senior

Efforts are now focusing on treating the virus instead of stopping it spreading as cases across the country soar to almost 10,000.

But an NHS Kirklees spokesman confirmed more patients locally are being treated for the symptoms.

He said: "Vulnerable groups will be offered antivirals within 48 hours but those without underlying medical conditions will be treated in the same way as normal flu."

"A lot of people are going to get it or may have had it already."

The news comes as the Government announced plans to give swine flu sufferers automatic sick notes for up to 14 days, instead of the usual seven days.

The short-term measure will be brought in to relieve the burden on GP surgeries and keep people in their homes to prevent the spread of infection.

Currently, employees can be off for seven days, including weekends and bank holidays, without needing a sick note from their GP.

It is understood the illness has already claimed the lives of two people in Kirklees. Both victims are understood to have had underlying medical conditions.

Tests show Dewsbury teacher Abdullah Patel, 42, died of swine flu last Sunday.

The teacher worked at the Institute of Islamic Education – a private boarding school in Savile Town – which was closed after there was a swine flu outbreak last week.

Nine-year-old epileptic schoolgirl Asmaa Hussain, also from Dewsbury, lost her life whilst suffering swine flu.

It is not yet known whether the flu bug was responsible.

Dr Judith Hooper, director of public health for NHS Kirklees, said: "Our thoughts and condolences are with the family and friends of two Kirklees residents who have passed away in recent days.

"Both individuals had been confirmed as having swine flu and I would like to reassure the local community that everything that could have been done to treat the individuals was done.

"Tests have shown that a contributory cause of death of the Dewsbury man was swine flu (H1N1). The individual also had serious underlying health issues.

"We cannot confirm any details about the cause of death of the child at this time and thus cannot confirm whether swine flu was a contributory cause at this time."

She urged people to make themselves aware of swine flu, the symptoms, treatment and actions to take to help prevent the bug.

People were being asked to avoid going to their GPs or chemists but to check their symptoms online at www.nhs.uk or by calling NHS Direct on 0845 4647.

For further information visit www.kirklees.nhs.uk