Suspected Cases in Scotland Test Positive for Swine Influenza

27 April 2009

The two suspected swine influenza cases under investigation in Scotland have today been confirmed as positive for swine influenza - similar to the strain seen in US and Mexico.

The two suspected swine influenza cases under investigation in Scotland have today been confirmed as positive for swine influenza - similar to the strain seen in US and Mexico.

Sequencing was carried out by the Regional Virus Laboratory, Gartnavel General Hospital, Glasgow and the Health Protection Agency's Centre for Infections Virus Reference Department.

In addition to the Mexican cases there have been confirmed cases in various parts of the US, as well as Canada, New Zealand and Europe.

Both patients have had a mild illness and are recovering.  Both are currently receiving antiviral treatment with oseltamivir (Tamiflu ®).

Today's positive result is the first documented case of swine influenza in the United Kingdom.

The Health Protection Agency and Health Protection Scotland continue to work with UK governments to review the ongoing swine influenza incident and any threat it poses to UK public health.

 

For further information on this statement please contact the Health Protection Agency's Centre for Infections press office on:

David Daley  020 8327 6647
Alexandra Baker  020 8327 7098
Louise Brown 020 8327 7080
Kate Swan  020 8327 7097

 

Last reviewed: 28 April 2009