The number of Swine Flu cases in the United Kingdom continues to rise as 42 further patients under investigation in England have been confirmed with swine flu in the last 24 hours.
Together with the 32 cases in Scotland announced yesterday by the Scottish Government and one in Northern Ireland announced earlier today by the Northern Ireland Executive this brings the current total number of confirmed UK cases to 750.
A further 607 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 declared the first global flu pandemic in 40 years at an emergency meeting arranged yesterday. Worldwide there have been 19,315 confirmed swine flu cases in 66 countries, with 117 deaths - nearly all in North America.
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.
Image of the newly identified H1N1 influenza virus, taken in the CDC Influenza Laboratory. Source is the CDC.
Contact David Fewster - News Editor Worldwidehealth.com
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