The number of Swine Flu cases in the United Kingdom has doubled in the last 5 days to 1,461. The Department of Health confirmed today that a further 141 further patients under investigation in England have been confirmed with swine flu in the last 24 hours. Worldwide the number of cases has jumped in the last week by over 17,000 new cases.
Hundreds of other 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.
The World Health organization as expected, declared the first global flu pandemic in 40 years at an emergency meeting last week. Worldwide there have been 35,928 confirmed swine flu cases in 76 countries, with 163 deaths - two of which were in the UK.
Anyone currently under investigation 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 offered antivirals and will be asked to stay at home and limit their contact with other people.
Where antivirals are prescribed, the specified course of treatment has to be followed and completed, even though in some cases this medication may cause nausea.
Parents and schools are being asked to be vigilant and take prompt action if children who have travelled abroad during the half term break start showing flu-like symptoms.
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.
Contact David Fewster - Worldwidehealth Editor
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