Boris Johnson has offered to donate London’s stockpile of the anti-viral drug Tamiflu to help ensure the UK is prepared for any potential outbreak of swine flu.
The Tamiflu were purchased by former Mayor Ken Livingstone to help ensure the capital’s essential services kept running in the event of an outbreak.
City Hall says Greater London Authority officials are in discussions with central Government but anticipate passing on the anti-virals to the relevant authorities, whenever they might be needed.
The offer covers the GLA’s entire holding of the drugs, 100,000 tablets. City Hall says since Livingstone purchased the stocks the Government has introduced a full national plan and stocks, removing any need for a separate GLA holding.
Boris Johnson said: “I’m pleased to share these significant supplies of anti-virals with the agencies in the lead in protecting the UK and its capital. Thankfully – so far – the virus has not been reported in London, but I’d like to reassure everyone that tried and tested plans are in place to combat any threat, swiftly and comprehensively.”
NHS advice
Meanwhile the NHS in London has issued the following general advice on reducing the transmission of all viruses, including the human swine flu:
- Covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, using a tissue when possible.
- Disposing of dirty tissues promptly and carefully.
- Maintaining good basic hygiene, for example washing hands frequently with soap and water to reduce the spread of the virus from your hands to face or to other people.
- Cleaning hard surfaces (e.g. door handles) frequently using a normal cleaning product. Making sure your children follow this advice.
More information is available from the London Resilience Team.
