SWINE flu has so far had very little impact on Musgrove Park Hospital in Taunton, a leading doctor said today.
Dr Jon Tipping, the Emergency Department Associate Specialist, said only a "very small" number of people with the virus were being treated at the hospital.
He also said few people were attending the A and E department with the bug and most people were being treated through their GP.
Dr Tipping added: "We are also hoping things are going to calm down in the next few weeks, as is happening in the USA.
But he warned: "These viruses often come in waves and we can probably expect a second wave in the near future which may be worse.
"If that does happen we have contingency plans to cope with the situation. It may be that some outpatient appointments or non-urgent operations are put on hold while we cope with the outbreak.
"We also believe the virus will be around for several years. It's going to be a long job."
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