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Probable swine flu case in Wales Probable swine flu case in Wales
(about 1 hour later)
The first probable case of swine flu has been identified in Wales, according to health chiefs.The first probable case of swine flu has been identified in Wales, according to health chiefs.
A 31-year-old man from the Caerphilly local authority area is being investigated.A 31-year-old man from the Caerphilly local authority area is being investigated.
Health officials say the infection is linked to his travel to the USA. Confirmation that he has swine flu is expected from further tests on Monday.Health officials say the infection is linked to his travel to the USA. Confirmation that he has swine flu is expected from further tests on Monday.
The Chief Medical Officer for Wales said it is likely further cases will continue to emerge.The Chief Medical Officer for Wales said it is likely further cases will continue to emerge.
He urged people to be vigilant.He urged people to be vigilant.
The man under under investigation has mild flu symptoms. He has been offered antivirals and is recovering at home.
Although it is natural for people to feel apprehensive, we would like to reassure the public that we have been working to prepare for the arrival of the virus for many years and have robust procedures in place Chief Medical Officer for Wales, Dr Tony Jewell
His close family contacts are all well, and have also been offered antivirals, while other close contacts are also being traced.
Chief Medical Officer, Dr Tony Jewell, said: "We have made it clear all along that there would be cases in Wales and everyone must continue to be vigilant and try to reduce the spread of the virus.
"It is likely that further cases will continue to emerge and we are continuing to monitor the situation very closely."
Dr Jewell said that while the numbers remain low, officials' focus was to continue learning as much as possible about the swine flu virus, and to work to slow its spread.
He said their advice to the public remains the same.
"People should follow good respiratory and hand hygiene to help prevent the spread of influenza - always using a tissue to catch sneezes, throwing away used tissues where germs can linger and regularly washing your hands, or cleaning them with a sanitising gel."
HYGIENE ADVICE Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, using a tissue where possibleDispose of tissues promptly and carefullyWash hands frequently with soap and waterClean hard surfaces such as door handles regularly with a normal cleaning productHelp your children to follow hygiene adviceSource: National Public Health Service for Wales/Welsh Assembly Government
He added: "Although it is natural for people to feel apprehensive, we would like to reassure the public that we have been working to prepare for the arrival of the virus for many years and have robust procedures in place."
Two hundred and 15 cases of swine flu have so far been confirmed across the UK. All are responding well to treatment.
Dr Roland Salmon from the National Public Health Service for Wales (NPHSW) said: "We continue to advise that anyone who has flu-like symptoms and has travelled to one of the affected areas should stay at home and phone their GP or NHS Direct Wales."
He said people should not go the the A&E departments or their GP surgery without ringing first, as this may risk spreading the infection.
Dr Salmon added: "Although there are indications that this flu is mid, we know that seasonal flu can be severe, particularly for elderly and vulnerable people, so there is still good reason for us all to take action to reduce its effects.
"Flu is often confused with a bad cold but is in fact far more serious and leads to many deaths each year in Wales."
NHS Direct can be contacted on 0845 46 47.