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Tamiflu warning as swine flu cases rise
PARENTS whose children have been given Tamiflu for swine flu are being urged to contact their GPs if their conditions worsen.
The symptoms of swine flu can be similar to other illnesses that Tamiflu is not effective in treating.
Because its symptoms are harder to assess in young children, South Tyneside health chiefs say it is important for parents and carers to keep a close eye on them.
Marietta Evans, director of public health for South Tyneside Primary Care Trust (PCT), said: "My advice to parents is to trust their own judgement.
"Most children will get better and recover from flu in five days.
"If parents are concerned that their child is not picking up, seems to be getting worse, or has developed new symptoms, they should contact their GP, or the out-of-hours service if the surgery is closed."
Symptoms to look out for in children include not drinking fluids well, urinating less, vomiting, drowsiness, breathing difficulties, a worsening cough, high temperature or rash.
The advice comes as scientists warn that a second wave of swine flu could be on its way after a rise in the number of new cases in South Tyneside.
For the first time in weeks, there has been an increase in the number of people diagnosed with the virus in the South of Tyne and Wear Primary Care Trust's patch.
Within the last week, 571 people in that area, also including Gateshead and Sunderland, received the antiviral drug Tamiflu, up from 523 the week before.
The rise follows the return of children, identified as key spreaders of the disease, to school.
PCT bosses have also reiterated their advice on basic hygiene.
"Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, dispose of dirty tissues promptly and carefully, and wash hands frequently with soap and water," said Ms Evans.
Anyone who suspects they have swine flu should not go to their GP or an accident and emergency unit.
The National Pandemic Flu Service gives people with swine flu symptoms fast access to antivirals, freeing GPs to deal with other illnesses.
It can be contacted at www.direct.gov.uk/pandemicflu or on 0800 151 3100.
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Weather for South Shields
Wednesday 08 February 2012
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: -2 C to 2 C
Wind Speed: 16 mph
Wind direction: South
Tomorrow
Light rain
Temperature: 1 C to 3 C
Wind Speed: 9 mph
Wind direction: South
