Second NI Swine Flu Case Confirmed

The Stormont Health Minister Michael McGimpsey (pictured) has said that a further case of swine flu has been confirmed in Northern Ireland.

This second case is in a young male who was recently in contact with a case in England.

He has been given antiviral treatment and is at home and recovering well. The Public Health Agency has identified all close contacts, who have also received antiviral treatment as a precautionary measure and to help reduce the risk of transmission.

The Agency is also contacting selected passengers who were sitting close to this person on the 7pm Flight BD96 from London Heathrow to Belfast City Airport on Wednesday 27 May 2009.

They said this is a standard precautionary measure in line with current national guidance. The risk of transmission to other passengers on the flight is low.

NI Health Minister Michael McGimpsey said: "It is not surprising that we have seen a further case of swine flu and I would again urge people not be alarmed - this was to be expected. I am pleased to hear that the individual is recovering well at home.

"The public can be reassured that we have been preparing for a situation like this for some years and are well prepared for any potential pandemic.

"Our strategy to use antivirals to slow the spread of the virus also appears to be effective, as well as reducing symptoms. But we can not be complacent. We will continue to vigilant to ensure we are well-placed to deal with any emerging situation," he said.

The Minister also noted that Northern Ireland has significant stockpiles of antivirals, enough to treat 50% of the population, which is currently being increased to treat 80% of the population.

An agreement to secure the production of a pre-pandemic vaccine has also been signed.

This is an opportunity to secure vaccine supplies for the UK in advance of a pandemic wave.

These arrangements provide the opportunity by December this year to have enough pre-pandemic vaccine to protect at least half of the population from swine flu.

Dr Elizabeth Mitchell, Northern Ireland's Acting Chief Medical Officer added: "I would again ask everyone to play their part to protect and prepare themselves and their families.

"Simple, effective measures can help reduce the spread of flu – always use a tissue to cover your mouth and nose when sneezing, dispose of the tissue and then wash your hands with soap and water or sanitising gel. The message is simple, Catch It, Bin It, Kill It."

The Northern Ireland Swine Flu helpline (0800 0514 142, from Monday – Friday 9am-6pm) provides advice to the public on swine flu.

A national Swine Flu Information line is also available on 0800 1 513 513.

(BMcC/JM)