As of Friday 17th July 2009

The swine flu epidemic in the UK is in the Treatment Phase. There is no longer laboratory testing to confirm whether a person has swine flu or another influenza-like infection.

There have been 94,512 confirmed cases reported in 135 countries. These numbers are thought to significantly under represent the true case number. There have been 17 deaths in the UK including 14 cases with underlying medical conditions.

Hertfordshire PCT continues to distribute antivirals through pharmacy distribution points. Multi-agency planning for the setting up of Antiviral Collection Points across the county continues.

No schools in Hertfordshire are closed, although there are some reported cases of swine flu.

A combination of the following methods is used to monitor the prevalence of the disease across the UK:

Reports on Primary Care consultation rates
Surveys
Laboratory confirmed cases
Calls to NHS Direct that report influenza-like infections

The Council continues to assess the position on an on-going basis, and weekly at the Chief Executive’s Board meeting.