Second case of Swine Flu confirmed in Northern Ireland

Health Minister Michael McGimpsey has said today that a further case of swine flu has been confirmed in Northern Ireland.

The second case has been confirmed in a young male who was recently in contact with a case in England.  He has been given anti-viral 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.  This is a standard precautionary measure in line with current national guidance.  The risk of transmission to other passengers on the flight is low.

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.”

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.

As part of plans for a pandemic, the Department also has sleeping contracts in place, which means that if WHO moves to Phase 6 and declare a pandemic we will receive vaccine when it becomes available. This means that everyone in Northern Ireland will have access to two doses of pandemic vaccine, if they need them.

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.

Notes to Editors:

1. The Public Health Agency will contact selected passengers who sat close to the case on the flight to offer advice and to provide any follow up if needed.
2. The Northern Ireland swine flu helpline number has also been established   0800 0514 142.  This is a freephone helpline for those who have recently returned from Mexico or another affected area and are worried and need more information.
3. The UK-wide flu information line on 0800 1 513 513 provides regularly updated advice on swine flu. This is a freephone number.
4. A public information campaign is currently underway and includes television, radio and print adverts.  The adverts provide information on swine flu and remind people to cover their noses and mouths with tissues when they cough and sneeze and then throw the tissue away and wash their hands.  The message is simple: catch it.  Bin it.  Kill it.
5. Information leaflets are also available at all ports and airports across Northern Ireland providing advice for travellers returning from swine-flu affected areas.
6. Press enquiries to the DHSSPS Press Office on 028 9052 0575.  Out of office hours contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 076 9971 5440 and your call will be returned.