A Luton man has tested positive for swine flu - the first confirmed case in Bedfordshire.

The patient is being treated, but it is not yet known how he contracted the virus.

Gerry Taylor, director of public health at NHS Luton, said: "I can confirm that a man in Luton has tested positive for swine flu.

"The patient, who is showing mild symptoms, has been given antiviral medication and is recovering well at home.

"This first case is not unexpected given the increase in cases throughout the UK and does not indicate a need to change the way we are currently responding to swine flu.

"We have robust plans in place to contain and tackle the virus and we will continue to monitor the situation closely."

NHS in Luton continues to encourage people to practice good hygiene to prevent the spread of the virus, for example covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, using a tissue when possible, and washing hands frequently with soap and water.

Swine flu symptoms are similar to the seasonal influenza infection and include fever, fatigue, lack of appetite, coughing and sore throat.

If you have any of these symptoms, the advice is to stay at home, call your GP or contact NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

For the latest information on swine flu contact 0800 1 153 153 or visit the World Health Organisation website www.who.int or the Health Protection Agency site at www.hpa.org.uk