NHS Cambridgeshire has reassured people that it is prepared for any threat of a pandemic flu outbreak, after the World Health Organisation raised its alert to the second highest level. Dr Lincoln Sargeant, Public Health Consultant at NHS Cambridgeshire, s

NHS Cambridgeshire has reassured people that it is prepared for any threat of a pandemic flu outbreak, after the World Health Organisation raised its alert to the second highest level.

Dr Lincoln Sargeant, Public Health Consultant at NHS Cambridgeshire, said in a statement: "NHS Cambridgeshire is very well prepared and has a comprehensive Pandemic Flu plan which has been regularly updated.

"There is still a low risk of contracting swine flu and the WHO has not declared a pandemic alert. Therefore people should not feel unnecessarily concerned by the recent cases of swine flu in the UK.

"We would ask anyone who is concerned that they may have been exposed to swine flu (for example if they have recently travelled to Mexico or USA) to telephone their GP or NHS Direct on 0845 4647. People who may be showing symptoms of swine flu should not visit their GP in person or their A&E Department."

The NHS in the East of England has in place comprehensive plans for any threat of pandemic flu. NHS Cambridgeshire has followed this guidance along with the Department of Health and Health Protection Agency advice to ensure all parts of the local NHS and all frontline NHS staff are fully prepared.

The NHS has launched a recorded swine flu information line for anyone who wants up to date information on the swine flu outbreak on 0800 1 513 513.

The recorded swine flu information line is not intended for those who are worried about contracting swine flu.

Those who have recently travelled to any of the affected areas and have flu-like symptoms should stay at home and call your GP, out of hours GP service or NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 for advice.

Anyone who meets these criteria should contact a health professional as soon as possible to get treatment.