What will happen about normal NHS activity – out-patient clinics, planned surgery etc?
At this stage our aim is to maintain normal levels of NHS activity, and primary care services, A&E services, planned surgery and out-patient clinics will continue as normal. Emergency plans exist for limiting routine activity, and will be implemented at a later stage if this becomes necessary, either because of a surge in flu cases requiring hospital treatment or if staff sickness affects the ability to deliver services effectively. Clinical countermeasures NHS Scotland has stockpiles of antiviral drugs which are effective against the specific H1N1 strain of flu we are currently concerned about. All territorial NHS Boards already have stocks of these drugs, and further supplies will be provided as required. There is little evidence that widespread use of face masks is beneficial. The general wearing of face masks in public places by those who do not have flu symptoms is not recommended, and facemasks will not be provided by Government for that purpose. Masks are only effective if they
