Lansley attacks Labour's "dithering" over swine flu

Andrew Lansley has warned that Labour’s “dithering” over the preparations for swine flu has left the NHS unable to respond effectively to the outbreak.

The Shadow Health Secretary said, “According to the Government’s own planning document, a full National Flu Line should have been up and running over a month ago, and managing the distribution of drugs and information in a coordinated way across the country.”

“Now, as vital weeks have passed and the number of cases has surged, it is clear that the Government’s dithering has damaged the ability of the NHS to respond coherently to the outbreak.”

Andrew stressed there was still “far too much confusion” amongst the public about what to do when people experience flu symptoms.

And he attacked the Government for not taking measures to deal with the expected increase in demand for intensive care beds as the virus spreads:

“The Government now project that up to 1500 extra people a day will need hospital care by the end of August. I can see no evidence that they’ve created the extra bed capacity or trained the extra staff that will be necessary to cope with this sort of demand. This sort of dithering is unacceptable, and does not inspire confidence that Andy Burnham is in control of the situation.”

NHS Alert: Important information about swine flu

There are two confirmed cases of swine flu in the UK. Read the latest official advice and find out about the simple steps you can take to help protect yourself and others.

If you have flu-like symptoms and have recently returned from Mexico or another affected area, or been with someone who has, stay at home and contact your GP or NHS Direct on 0845 4647.

If you are unsure about your symptoms, use this special flu symptom checker.

For an explanation of swine flu, its causes, symptoms and treatment, go to Swine flu.

For quick questions and answers go to Swine flu Q&A.

For the latest updates on the swine flu outbreak go to Flu virus latest.

Remember, preventing the spread of germs is the single most effective way to slow the spread of diseases such as swine flu. You should always:

• Ensure everyone washes their hands regularly with soap and water
• Clean surfaces regularly to get rid of germs
• Use tissues to cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze
• Place used tissues in a bin as soon as possible

You can also prepare now in case the swine flu becomes widespread by:

• Establishing a network of "flu friends" - friends and relatives - who can help if you fall ill. They could, for example, collect medicines and other supplies for you, so you wouldn't have to leave home
• Having a stock of food and other supplies, including basic cold remedies, available at home. This should be enough to last two weeks, in case you and your family are ill

For more information go to Swine flu.