NHS Eastern and Coastal Kent is advising people what to do if they think they have swine flu, as the national flu service prepares to make its last diagnosis this week.
Swine flu cases have dropped steadily across the UK, which has led to the decision to stop the National Pandemic Flu Service at 1am on Thursday 11 February.
After this time, people with suspected swine flu should stay at home and contact their GP. If antivirals are required the GP will prescribe them and they will be available through designated collection points.
If cases of swine flu start to increase, the flu service can be up and running again within seven days.
The vaccination programme will continue, and it remains extremely important for those in priority groups and children aged over six months and under five years to have the jab.
Andrew Scott-Clark, NHS Eastern and Coastal Kent's Deputy Director of Public Health, said: “The flu line was set up to take pressure off GPs at the peak of the pandemic. With the number of cases dropping, GPs will now be able to manage with diagnosing patients.
"Our priority remains to vaccinate those most at risk from swine flu, as people are still in hospital from the virus and sadly some have died. It is important to remember that although swine flu cases have reduced, for a small number of people the disease can have very serious consequences. This is why we urge those at risk to contact their GP to have the vaccine as soon as possible.
"This is the first time we have had a vaccine to protect people while a pandemic virus has been circulating, so it has undoubtedly helped us save lives.”
Swine flu statistics
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The flu-like illness GP consultation rate per 100,000 population for the week ending 31 January is 9.7 for eastern and coastal Kent
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The total number of people hospitalised within the South East Coast region in connection with swine flu is 1,516 since 6 July 2009
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The current number of confirmed deaths across the South East Coast region is 20.
