McMillan Speaks in Influenza AH1N Debate

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has today (Wednesday) spoken in a Scottish Government debate on Influenza AH1N, otherwise known as 'swine' flu'. Mr McMillan recently raised the issue in a Parliamentary question to the Health Secretary, Nicola Sturgeon MSP and was today contributing to a debate in the Scottish Parliament chamber on the issue.

Mr McMillan said;

"I felt it important to speak in the Influenza AH1N debate in the Scottish Parliament as there are currently 6 confirmed cases of swine flu in Greenock.

"As this forms part of the West of Scotland region and also where I live I felt it important to put on record my feelings about this issue.

"There are still people suffering in Greenock and throughout Scotland and I am pleased the Scottish Government has not opted to over or underplay any of the dangers surrounding swine flu.

"It's important that people remain vigilant and take the necessary precautions such as washing your hands regularly to prevent the spread of swine flu.

"The way the Inverclyde public, education staff, Inverclyde Council and all local health professionals have dealt with the situation has been highly commendable.

"This episode has shown both Greenock and the whole of Inverclyde at its very best."

McMillan Raises Swine Flu Question with Health Secretary

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has today (Thursday) raised a question with the Cabinet Secretary for Health and Wellbeing during a statement on the latest suspected and confirmed cases of Influenza A (H1N1) otherwise known as 'Swine Flu'. Mr McMillan was one of a number of MSP's to raise questions with the Health Secretary.

Mr McMillan said;

"The recent confirmed cases of H1N1 in the Inverclyde area has caused a lot of concern amongst local residents, particularly those with young children who attend nurseries and schools.

"Everyone wants re-assurance and guidance regarding swine flu and I welcome the forthcoming approach taken by the Cabinet Secretary in her continued open dialogue with Members of the Scottish Parliament and the wider public.

"I therefore was keen to raise a question with the Health Secretary during her statement to Parliament this morning and I asked what affect the recent suspension of the Corporate Director for Education at Inverclyde Council would have on dealing with the issue of swine flu in Inverclyde.

"I know that the concerns I have raised on behalf of the people of Inverclyde will be taken onboard by the Health Secretary and passed on to her Department to help deal with the present situation."

McMillan Comments on Swine Flu in Greenock

Responding to the reports of a probable case of swine flu in Greenock Stuart McMillan MSP said;

"Now that we have a probable case of swine flu in Inverclyde it brings the issue closer to home for us all.

"I would encourage people to be vigilant and follow the advice from the Scottish Government regarding personal hygiene standards, for example, cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing.

"The Scottish Government are dealing with this admirably and are well prepared in the eventuality of a pandemic.

"If anyone in the area is worried they should contact the dedicated NHS 24 helpline in the first instance on 08454 24 24 24".

McMillan Highlights Swine Flu Advice Line

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has highlighted the dedicated swine flu advice line which can be accessed through NHS 24. The line will give the public valuable information about swine flu and what to do if they have any concerns.Callers to NHS 24 – 08454 24 24 24 – will now be given the additional option of being put straight through to a dedicated team who are dealing with swine flu.

Mr. McMillan said;

"Although we have had two confirmed cases in Scotland, we are not in a pandemic situation and the level of threat to public health remains low.

"It's vital that members of the public can readily access reliable and trustworthy information about swine flu. This advice line will be an easy way for people to keep abreast of the situation.

"As there are suspected, but not yet confirmed cases, in the NHS Greather Glasgow and Clyde area I would encourage people in Inverclyde to take heed of the adverts and leaflets coming their way this week on precautionary measures".