8 June 2009

Two more cases of swine flu confirmed in Northern Ireland

Health Minister Michael McGimpsey has said two more cases of swine flu have been confirmed in Northern Ireland.

This brings the total number of cases here to six.

The two new cases, one male and one female, returned separately from the USA, one from Florida and one from New York. They are not connected to any previous cases. Both people have been given anti-viral treatment and are 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.

Health Minister Michael McGimpsey said, "It is not surprising that other cases are beginning to emerge and I would again urge people not be alarmed. I am pleased to hear that both individuals are recovering well.

"The public can be reassured that we are prepared for a situation like this. Our containment 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 be vigilant to ensure we are well-placed to deal with any eme! rging 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, e ffective 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.

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