Update on confirmed swine flu cases

26 May 2009

Testing of the swine flu virus is carried out by the Health Protection Agency's laboratories.

 

44 of the newly confirmed cases are in the West Midlands region - 41 children and three adults linked to a previously confirmed case and the ongoing investigation of a school outbreak.

The three additional new cases in England are two adults and one child from the East of England region and London - two are returning travellers and the other is linked to a previously confirmed case.

113 cases are currently under laboratory investigation in the UK. These cases change on a daily basis on account of some of those under assessment being discounted and new ones being introduced. This figure is correct at the time stated.

Anyone who is being investigated as a possible case of swine flu (which means they meet the epidemiological criteria and have symptoms) or has been confirmed with the infection will be given antivirals and will be asked to stay at home and limit their contact with other people.  

Where antivirals are prescribed, it is important that the specified course of treatment is followed and completed, even though in some cases this medication may cause nausea.  

It is important for parents and schools to be vigilant and take prompt action if children who have travelled abroad during the half term break start showing flu-like symptoms.

If travellers become ill while on holiday, on the flight home, or on their return:

• Travellers should continue to be aware of the risk of swine flu and anyone experiencing flu-like symptoms during a stay in a country affected by swine flu should contact a health professional and inform them of their symptoms.
  
• Anyone who becomes ill on their flight home should alert cabin crew to their symptoms. There are well established procedures in place for dealing with passengers who become unwell on flights and the airline will advise port health officials on the ground that a passenger requires a health assessment and may need treatment.
  
• Travellers returning from a country affected by swine flu who become unwell with flu-like symptoms within seven days of their return should stay at home and contact their GP or NHS Direct on 0845 4647.
  
• To access the Department of Health Swine Flu Information line when abroad, call 00 44 207 928 1010.

General infection control practices and good respiratory hand hygiene can help to reduce transmission of all viruses, including swine flu. This includes:

• Maintaining good basic hygiene, for example washing hands frequently with soap and water to reduce the spread of virus from your hands to face or to other people.
  
• Cleaning hard surfaces (e.g. door handles) frequently using a normal cleaning product.
  
• Covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, using a tissue when possible.
  
• Disposing of dirty tissues promptly and carefully.
  
• Making sure your children follow this advice.