HEALTH AUTHORITIES in Northern Ireland are tracking down some 150 passengers who boarded a flight from Gatwick to Belfast with a man now diagnosed with swine flu.
The man and his family were returning from a holiday in Mexico on May 8th and those who boarded the 17.40 EasyJet flight to Belfast International at Aldergrove on that date are being sought by the Public Health Agency.
He sought medical advice at the weekend, but the diagnosis was only confirmed yesterday following specialist tests which were carried out in London. He is said to be responding well to treatment at his home in Co Antrim.
Last night only about 25 people who were on the flight had been identified.
Health Minister Michael McGimpsey said: “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.”
He said Northern Ireland was well prepared and had significant stockpiles of antivirals, enough to treat 50 per cent of the population, and was being increased to treat up to 80 per cent of the local population.
Referring to a public information campaign currently under way, Mr McGimpsey said all steps should be taken to minimise the risk of infection.
“Information leaflets are also available at all ports and airports across Northern Ireland providing advice for travellers returning from swine-flu affected areas,” he added.
Acting chief medial officer Dr Elizabeth Mitchell claimed that current arrangements “will help us respond well to any emerging situation.
“Everyone needs to play their part to protect and prepare themselves and their families,” she said.
“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.”
She said that 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. Public Health Agency chief executive Dr Eddie Rooney said his job was to ensure the public was protected.
“We have already identified and started antivirals for people who have been in close contact with the patient and are following up with passengers on the flight from Gatwick to Belfast International,” he said.
The Department of Health in the North said last night some 56 suspected cases of swine flu had already been tested before yesterday’s first positive confirmation. One other case is being tested and results are pending.More than 70 incidences of the disease have now been confirmed in the UK.