Health officials offer reassurance to public after swine flu case

Health officials in Shetland have moved to reassure the public after the first confirmed case of swine flu was recorded in the isles.

Director of public health at NHS Shetland Dr Sarah Taylor said it was inevitable the virus was going to arrive here sooner or later.

The confirmed case emerged following a routine GP check on patients suffering flu-like symptoms.  More cases are expected to be recorded soon.

Dr Taylor said people concerned they might be suffering from the virus should contact their GP or telephone NHS 24 for advice, particularly if they have underlying health issues.

“In most cases people will have a few days of feeling poorly but being able to treat themselves, and then will be back on their feet again,” she said.

An inoculation programme will begin next month when the vaccine becomes available nationally.