The Highlands and Islands Strategic Co-ordinating Group, (HISCG), met on 26 June, in Inverness.
The HISCG agencies are working together to plan and prepare for any impact of Influenza A, (H1N1), and are continually monitoring and assessing the local, regional and national situation.
Dr Ken Oates, Consultant in Public Health, NHS Highland, says:
“Within the Highland council area there have only been 2 confirmed cases identified so far. Both of these are travel related, one in an American tourist and the other in someone recently returned from a holiday in New York. A number of possible cases continue to be investigated by general practitioners each day, but there is currently no evidence of community spread of H1N1 (swine flu) in the local Highland population.”
Chair of HISCG, Chief Constable Ian Latimer says:
“I would like to thank members of staff from all the agencies for the huge amount of work that has been done in recent weeks and months to ensure we are as prepared as we can be to deal with any implications of a pandemic spread of the flu virus. It is anticipated that there will be a greater impact across Scotland as the virus continues to spread. However, the agencies in the Highlands and Islands have a long history of working together and this mutual support and planning stands us in good stead to respond effectively at a local level.”
Dr Oates went on to say: “The vast majority of confirmed cases have a mild illness, but I would like to emphasise the importance of good hygiene in helping to prevent the spread of infection. Practical actions include:
- using a tissue to cover your mouth when coughing and/or sneezing,
- disposing of the tissue promptly and then washing your hands
- washing hands frequently with soap and water, especially after coughing, sneezing and using tissues
- avoiding touching your mouth, eyes and nose unless you have recently cleaned your hands
- using normal household detergent and water to clean surfaces frequently touched by hands”
Ends
Chair: Jim Ferguson
