County still a swine flu hotspot but cases falling

Shropshire remains a swine flu hotspot with the highest infection rate in the region, where cases have been falling, according to the latest figures.

GP consultations over the virus in Shropshire remain above average according to the NHS West Midlands report.

The statistics show patients turning up at primary care centres with influenza-like symptoms have decreased across the region, although the figure is highest in Shropshire.

The report says: "This data indicates a significant decrease for the week ending August 9, across England, the West Midlands and within Shropshire.

"The reported rate of GP consultations per 100,000 population within the West Midlands for the week was 45, compared with 73.3 for the previous week."

The figure for Shropshire PCT was 52 per 100,000, compared to an England and Wales average of 48.

The report says: "The total number of new admissions with swine flu admitted in the West Midlands for August 6 to 12 is 83. As at August 12, there were 40 people in hospital.

"There has been one swine flu-related death reported for the week within the West Midlands. The total number of deaths for the region is eight."

An NHS spokesman said: "For most people swine flu is not a serious illness and they should start to feel better after a few days without needing to go to their GP or A&E."

The NHS in the West Midlands aims to open 12 anti-viral collection points in Shropshire, with seven open so far with one in Bridgnorth, Ludlow, Oswestry and Whitchurch and three in Shrewsbury. More will open as demand arises.