Swine flu - listen to the experts

THIS week saw the start of the swine flu vaccination programme in the Borders.
It came just two days ahead of the funeral of the young local teenage mum-to-be who died in the Borders General Hospital as a result of the virus.
While experts say that the majority of those unfortunate enough to contract swine flu will experience only mild symptoms and make a quick recovery, the illness can cause serious problems for those with underlying existing health issues.
Although there have been some concerns raised over the new vaccine, experts insist it is safe and NHS Borders is right to urge all those in the health priority groups, including pregnant women, to take up the offer of the jab when it comes.
So far just over 100 people with swine flu have died in the UK (two in the Borders) out of about 500,000 who have been infected. But we are now coming into traditional peak flu season and it is vital that people not only observe strict hygiene procedures but take up the vaccination offer promptly.
It is also important that nurses and other medical staff set an example by getting vaccinated. In the fight against the pandemic, they are the frontline of our defence and over the next few months they have to try to remain fit and healthy to help care for and protect the rest of us.
As well as taking up the vaccination offers, we need to do what we can to try to avoid adding to the workload of medical staff who will be even more hard-pressed if the pandemic takes off.
So please exercise common sense when it comes to basic hygiene measures and listen to advice issued by NHS Borders.