IT is hoped the number of people in the Waveney area suffering from the swine flu pandemic may have reached its peak.Those collecting anti-viral drugs to combat symptoms has fallen but sufferers are still being urged not to contact their GP.

IT is hoped the number of people in the Waveney area suffering from the swine flu pandemic may have reached its peak.

Those collecting anti-viral drugs to combat symptoms has fallen but sufferers are still being urged not to contact their GP.

Dr Shamsher Diu, consultant in public health for NHS Great Yarmouth and Waveney, said: 'Since the launch of the National Pandemic Flu Service, we have been urging anyone who has flu-like symptoms, not to contact their GP, but instead call 0800 1 513 100 or visit www.direct.gov.uk/pandemicflu

'They will then be assessed and, should they need anti-viral medication, advisors from the national service will give them details of their nearest collection point and a unique reference number which will allow a 'flu friend' to pick up medication on their behalf.'

Dr Diu said there was no shortage of medication to tackle the pandemic.

'There are currently 11 anti-viral collection points spread across Great Yarmouth and Waveney and medication is available in all of our major towns and villages. We keep the location of the collection points under constant review to ensure that we can continue to meet the demand at all times. We also have provision in place for people who need to collect the anti viral-drugs outside of normal working hours.

'Recently, the number of people needing to collect anti-viral drugs has gone down, both locally and nationally. However, we are fully prepared to respond once more, should we start to see a rise in the number of people with flu-like illnesses,' he said.

Dr Diu stressed that most people have mild flu-like symptoms.

'It is important to stress that swine flu symptoms have generally been mild for the vast majority of people, and some people may find that they get better by staying in bed, drinking plenty of water and taking over-the-counter flu medication,' he said.