The first case has been confirmed in an adult male who has recently returned from Mexico. The individual is at home and is recovering well. The Public Health Agency is also working with those who have been in close contact with the individual to help reduce the potential risk for transmission.
Health Minister Michael McGimpsey said: “As expected, given the global situation, we have seen our first case of swine flu in Northern Ireland. I am pleased to hear that the patient is responding well to antiviral treatment and I hope he makes a full recovery as soon as possible.
“People should not be alarmed by this development. We have been planning for a situation like this for some years and are well prepared for any potential pandemic. It is also reassuring that the majority of cases have had a relatively mild flu-like illness which responds well to treatment with antivirals.
“Northern Ireland has significant stockpiles of antivirals, enough to treat 50% of the population, which is currently being increased to treat up to 80% of the population.
“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.
“The Northern Ireland Swine Flu helpline 0800 0 514 142, from 8.00am-8.00pm is up and running and provides advice to the public on swine flu. A national Swine Flu Information line is also available on 0800 1 513 513.
“Information leaflets are also available at all ports and airports across Northern Ireland providing advice for travellers returning from swine-flu affected areas.”
Dr Elizabeth Mitchell, Northern Ireland’s Acting Chief Medical Officer added: “This is a developing situation which we continue to monitor very closely. The arrangements we have in place and are continuing to make, will help us respond well to any emerging situation.
“Everyone needs to play their part to protect and prepare themselves and their families. Simple, effective measures such as frequent hand-washing with soap and water and using a tissue to cover your mouth and nose when sneezing can help reduce the spread of flu.
“Anyone who has travelled to Mexico or other affected areas within the last week and develops flu-like illness should stay at home to limit contact with others and seek medical advice from a GP. The GP will then contact the Public Health Agency to ensure that the patient gets the appropriate antiviral treatment promptly.”
Notes to Editors:
- The Northern Ireland swine flu helpline number has also been established 0800 0 514 142. This is a freephone helpline for those who have recently returned from Mexico and another affected area and are worried and need more information.
- The UK-wide flu information line on 0800 1 513 513 provides regularly updated advice on swine flu. This is a freephone number.
- Further information is available online from the DHSSPS website or nidirect
- Media enquiries should be directed to the DHSSPS press office on 028 9052 0579, 028 9052 0636, 028 9052 0575, 028 9052 0074 or out of hours contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 076 9971 5440 and your call will be returned.
