Antiviral Stocked Up As Swine Flu Case Confirmed

Northern Ireland's first case of swine flu has been confirmed.

The local stock of antivirals is being increased as a result after it emerged overnight that two suspected cases in NI were being examined.

The BBC reported that samples from one of those had been sent to London after initial tests in Belfast - and that test has now proved to be positive.

It has been confirmed the case is of an adult male who has recently returned from Mexico, but that he is at home and is recovering well.

The Public Health Agency is also working with those who have been in close contact with the individual to help reduce the potential risk for transmission.

The Chief Executive of the Public Health Agency, Dr Eddie Rooney said: "We have already identified and started antivirals for people who have been in close contact with the patient and are also following up with passengers on a flight from Gatwick to Belfast International."

The Easyjet flight from Gatwick to Belfast International flight was at 5.40pm on 8 May 2009 (EZY 737).

Passengers on that flight are being contacted directly by the Public Health Agency.

Stormont Health Minister, Michael McGimpsey said today: "As expected, given the global situation, we have seen our first case of swine flu in Northern Ireland.

"I am pleased to hear that the patient is responding well to antiviral treatment and I hope he makes a full recovery as soon as possible. People should not be alarmed by this development.

"We have been planning for a situation like this for some years and are well prepared for any potential pandemic.

"It is also reassuring that the majority of cases have had a relatively mild flu-like illness which responds well to treatment with antivirals," he said.

He noted that NI has significant stockpiles of antivirals, enough to treat 50% of the population at present, but said this is currently being increased to enough to treat up to 80% of the population.

Dr Elizabeth Mitchell, NI Acting Chief Medical Officer added: "This is a developing situation which we continue to monitor very closely. The arrangements we have in place and are continuing to make, will help us respond well to any emerging situation.

"Everyone needs to play their part to protect and prepare themselves and their families.

"Simple, effective measures such as frequent hand-washing with soap and water and using a tissue to cover your mouth and nose when sneezing can help reduce the spread of flu.

"Anyone who has travelled to Mexico or other affected areas within the last week and develops flu-like illness should stay at home to limit contact with others and seek medical advice from a GP.

"The GP will then contact the Public Health Agency to ensure that the patient gets the appropriate antiviral treatment promptly," she said.

The current total number of confirmed UK cases is now 71, with the majority of these in London.

Leaflets containing important information about swine flu are currently being sent out to all homes in Northern Ireland.

The Northern Ireland helpline is also available for anyone who has been to an affected country like Mexico or the USA and has flu-like symptoms, or for those who have any concerns about swine flu and need more information.

See: Swine Flu Leaflets Distributed Nationwide

(BMcC/JM)