LEIGHTON has at least one definite case of swine flu, it was confirmed yesterday, Wednesday – but there is no need to panic according to health officials.

The site agent at Linslade Lower School was diagnosed with the virus last week.

However, other suspected cases at the school have been false alarms.
But one of the town's leading GPs, Dr Roger Chapman at Bassett Road Surgery, insists there is no reason to panic.

He said: "It really is a very minor illness in most cases – it's a nuisance, but there is no need to overreact.

"Numbers in Leighton and Linslade are extremely low and we are following Health Protection Agency guidelines.

"If we suspect swine flu, we discuss individual symptoms with them."
One Friday two staff members and four children were sent home from Linslade Lower in Leopold Road because of suspected swine flu.

But the children have now returned to school fit and well and the two staff members are taking anti-viral medication as a precautionary measure. They had limited direct contact with pupils.

Parents have been asked to remain vigilant, but the Health Protection Agency has not recommended closure of the school."

A pamphlet detailing symptoms was also sent home, as the flu particularly targets children and young adults.

NHS Bedfordshire also says there is no cause for alarm as cases in Leighton and Linslade are very low and mild – and people may have had swine flu already, and not realise.

Acting director of public health Muriel Scott said: "While there has been an increase in the number of swine flu cases in Bedfordshire there is no need for members of the public to be unduly alarmed.

"Symptoms of the virus have so far been mild in the vast majority of patients and they are generally making a speedy recovery."

NHS Bedfordshire is also asking people with flu-like symptoms not to turn up at hospital A&E departments.

Muriel added: "A&E departments are currently experiencing a very busy period, particularly with the current heatwave.

"Patients turning up with flu-like symptoms would add to this pressure and also increase the risk of spreading the virus to other members of the public."

Anyone, particularly children, displaying flu-like symptoms is advised to stay at home and contact NHS Direct on 0845 4647 or their GP.