Sharp rise in swine flu cases

The number of people suffering from swine flu in Leicestershire has shot from two to 18 in a fortnight, it emerged today.

There are 14 patients in the county and four in the city.

Latest figures show there are now a total of 63 confirmed cases in the East Midlands and a UK total of 4,250.

Public health officials said they expect to see a rise in numbers over the next few weeks, but are urging people not to panic.

At the moment ,infected patients and their close contacts will still be treated with anti viral drugs. So far, those affected have only had mild symptoms.

Anyone concerned they might have flu should contact NHS Direct on 0845 4647 or their GP.