As the Olympics draw closer, health authorities are expecting an increase in chest infections and stomach complaints. The increased visitor numbers from different countries are likely to bring with them a number of undiagnosed bugs and viruses
However, the Health Protection Agency (HPA) stressed that although a slight increase in minor illnesses was to be expected it was not anticipating any major infectious outbreaks as a result of either the Olympics or the Paralympics games.
The HPA has announced plans so that bugs and viruses can be diagnosed rapidly and action implemented earlier. Bugs such as Salmonella can be identified within 24 hours rather than the normal two days.
Calls to the NHS help lines and after hours Doctors will also be monitored to identify patterns and early onset of anything of concern. Medical Professionals will report any outbreaks or suspicious symptoms.
The HPA director for the Olympics, Dr Brian McCloskey says the agency is well organized with best practice systems in place for monitoring, diagnosis and action plans. Dr McCloskey says the preparations mean the games organizers can be confident full backup is available to them in the event of any possible outbreak of infectious diseases.
The HPA stresses that its risk analysis shows there is only a small risk of infectious disease during the Games. Typical of the risks include respiratory and gastrointestinal illnesses and history shows serious outbreaks at major sports events are rare.
However, health authorities are taking no chances and are alerting medical professionals throughout the country to be on the lookout for anything unusual. Systems are in place to advise Doctors and other practitioners on how best to deal with anything unexpected, although some care is required to ensure the HPA is not inundated with calls from the public and concerned professionals.
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