A CASE of swine flu has been confirmed in North Herts today (Tuesday). The NHS has confirmed a young person in the area has contracted the H1N1 virus, has been given anti-viral drugs, and is recovering well at home. The news comes after a family of three

A CASE of swine flu has been confirmed in North Herts today (Tuesday).

The NHS has confirmed a young person in the area has contracted the H1N1 virus, has been given anti-viral drugs, and is recovering well at home.

The news comes after a family of three from Stevenage tested positive for swine flu yesterday (Monday).

The family recently travelled back to the UK from countries affected by swine flu.

They have also been given anti-virals and are recovering well at home.

The total number of swine flu cases in Hertfordshire is seven.

A man from West Herts and a young person from the Dacorum area have also been confirmed today as having swine flu.

A man living in West Herts was diagnosed with swine flu yesterday.

Dr Jane Halpin, Director of Public Health for Hertfordshire, said: "The three new cases of swine flu are not connected to the four cases previously announced, but they do not come as a surprise given the pattern of spread of this new strain of flu.

"The NHS in Hertfordshire continues to monitor the situation carefully and our GPs remain vigilant to any patients reporting flu-like symptoms.

"We have very detailed plans in place to manage any more widespread transmission of swine flu."

To help prevent swine flu from spreading, always use a tissue when you sneeze, throw away used tissues, and regularly wash you hands.

People who have recently travelled to Mexico, the US, or any other country affected by swine flu, and are developing flu-like symptoms, should stay at home and phone their GP or contact NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 or visit www.nhs.uk