Swine flu to be diagnosed online
Yesterday afternoon a further 158 cases of swine flu had been reported in the region – taking the total number of cases in the West Midlands up to 2,582.
As the figures were released, Secretary of State for Health, Andy Burnham, announced that as cases rise further, the country will move to a system where cases are diagnosed and dealt with by the National Pandemic Flu Service.
In a statement he said: "This will take the pressure off GPs by allowing people to be diagnosed and given their antiviral vouchers either online or via a central call centre."
GPs are now providing clinical diagnosis of swine flu cases rather than awaiting laboratory test results; and Primary Care Trusts are beginning to establish antiviral collection points.
Anyone who thinks they have swine flu should first go online and check their symptoms on www.nhs.uk, call NHS Direct (0845 46 47) or call the swine flu information line on 0800 1 513 513.
If people are still concerned they should then call their GP, who can provide a diagnosis over the phone. People should not go to A&E if they suspect they have swine flu.
There are now 2,582 cases of swine flu in the West Midlands.
Comment on this story