Published: Thursday, 2nd July, 2009 1:17pm

Swine flu can't be contained

by Peter Swindon

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The spread of swine flu can no longer be contained, health secretary Nicola Sturgeon admitted today.

Scotland, along with the rest of the UK, is now moving to a treatment phase for dealing with the H1N1 virus.

The decision means those who have come into contact with cases will no longer be given antivirals.

The move has been made to relieve the pressure on the health service.

Ms Sturgeon said, 'Given the number of cases, and the evidence of community transmission, we believe now is the right time to move to the treatment phase of dealing with the pandemic.

'This does not mean that the virus is getting more severe or that there is any cause for alarm. It simply means that we are seeing a rise in the number of cases and are adapting our approach to dealing with these.'

She added, 'The risk to the general public remains low. Fortunately, the vast majority of people who get this virus experience only mild symptoms. However, we can all play our part by remembering to wash our hands, using a tissue when coughing or sneezing and contacting NHS24 or your GP if you have a fever and feel unwell.'