Swine Flu vaccinations to begin

Dr Bridgman said priority cases would be dealt with quickly

Swine flu vaccinations are starting in Guernsey after the first batch of vaccine arrived in the island.

The island has received 8,600 doses, which were delivered to doctors' surgeries.

Healthcare workers at high risk will be the first to be vaccinated, followed by people classed as being at risk.

Dr Stephen Bridgman, director of public health, said priority cases would be dealt with quickly and there was no need to panic.

People at risk are adults and children, more than six months old, with a long term health condition, pregnant women, anyone who lives with someone who is at risk and health care staff who come into contact with these groups.

I would never underestimate this virus and while some people may become seriously ill, it remains the case that is a mild to moderate illness for most people Dr Stephen Bridgman

Dr Bridgman said there was no need for panic over vaccination and requested that islanders should wait until they are called by their GP surgery.

He said: "We will monitor the spread of swine flu in the community, the take up of the vaccine, and international expert scientific advice, before deciding on whether to recommend extension of the programme.

"Don't worry if you don't hear from your GP straight away and please don't request the vaccine ahead of invitation."

Dr Bridgeman said: "I would never underestimate this virus and while some people may become seriously ill, it remains the case that is a mild to moderate illness for most people."

The vaccine in the island was supplied by the UK Department of Health.

In the past week limited testing on patients with flu-like symptoms has shown that the swine flu virus remains in the island following the first confirmed case in June.