TWO further cases of swine flu have been confirmed in Cambridgeshire, bringing the total in the county to three. In a statement released today (May 19), Cambridgeshire NHS said two Cambridgeshire people had tested positive for H1N1 swine flu. The county

TWO further cases of swine flu have been confirmed in Cambridgeshire, bringing the total in the county to three.

In a statement released today (May 19), Cambridgeshire NHS said two Cambridgeshire people had tested positive for H1N1 swine flu. The county's first case of swine flu was confirmed last week involving a woman from Huntingdonshire.

Details of the exact locations or sexes of the two new cases have not yet been confirmed.

Dr Liz Robin, director of public health at NHS Cambridgeshire said: "I can confirm that two further unrelated cases in Cambridgeshire have tested positive for swine flu. Both patients showed mild symptoms and received anti-viral drugs, where appropriate. They are both recovering at home."

Investigations are continuing to try and determine how these patients contracted the virus.

Dr Robins said: "The Health Protection Agency and NHS Cambridgeshire have investigated all three cases. In two of the cases no links have been found to existing cases nor have they travelled to countries affected by swine flu. This means that they are likely to be 'sporadic' cases of transmission of the infection in the community. In the third case, contacts are still being investigated.

"This comes as no surprise and some transmission in the community has been expected. This does not represent widespread incidence in the community or sustained transmission that would lead to a change in the way we respond to swine flu. In most cases the swine flu infection has been mils and the advice to the public and health care staff remains unchanged."

There have now been 102 cases of swine flu confirmed in the UK. The East of England has 11 confirmed cases, the highest number outside of London.

Dr Paul Cosford, Regional Director of Public Health said: "As a region the NHS in the east of England is well prepared for cases of swine influenza.

"If you are worried about swine flu, call the information line on 0800 1513513. If you have flu-like symptoms, stay at home and contact NHS Direct on 0845 4647 or phone your GP.

"There are simple steps that everyone can take to help prevent catching colds and flu based on good respiratory and hand hygiene.

"Always use a tissue to catch your sneezes, throw away used tissues where germs can linger and regularly wash your hands.