Swine flu spreads to Haringey

THE first case of swine flu has been confirmed in Haringey, bringing the number of cases in the capital up to more than 70.

On Friday (May 22), the Health Protection Agency confirmed that a man in Haringey had been diagnosed with swine flu.

The cause of his infection is unknown and is under investigation and the patient is currently being treated at the Whittington Hospital in Highgate.

A spokesman at the Whittington said: "We can confirm that a patient at the Whittington is being treated as a confirmed case of swine flu (H1N1 virus).

"The patient is being treated in isolation and infection control procedures are being followed.

"A small number of patients who had contact with the person prior to their diagnosis and isolation have been given antivirals as a precaution.

"Staff involved in the direct care of the patient have also been given antivirals as a precaution.

"The Health Protection Agency is advising the Whittington and following up all those friends and family who may have come into close contact with the patient.

"There is no wider risk to patients at the hospital or to the public visiting the hospital site."

New cases of swine flu have been confirmed every day this week, with UK figures up to 184.

And Dr Chloe Sellwood, pandemic flu lead at NHS London, has warned that despite the lull in national coverage, confirmed cases are still likely to rise.

"As of May 26 there are 72 confirmed cases of swine flu in London and this figure is still likely to increase," she said.

"We continue to remind the public that the best protective measure is to use a tissue to catch your sneezes, throw all used tissues away, and to regularly wash your hands."

If anyone is worried, they are encouraged to call the swine flu information line on 0800 1513 513.

If a person has flu like symptoms, they should stay at home and contact NHS Direct on 08454647 or phone their GP.