Mexico SWINE Flu Sparks Worldwide Fear

Suspected outbreaks

Although all of the deaths so far have been in Mexico, the flu is spreading in the United States and suspected cases have been detected elsewhere:

* Eleven confirmed infections in the US
* In addition, eight suspected cases are being investigated at a New York City high school where about 200 students fell mildly ill with flu-like symptoms
* Ten New Zealand students are among a group which travelled to Mexico have tested positive for influenza A - making it "likely", though not definite, that they are infected with swine flu, said Health Minister Tony Ryall
* In France, a top health official told Le Parisien newspaper there were unconfirmed suspicions that two individuals who had just returned from Mexico may be carrying the virus
* But a UK hospital conducting tests for swine flu on a British Airways cabin crew member said the tests proved negative.

clipped from news.bbc.co.uk Mexico has ramped up its containment efforts Mexican authorities have taken drastic measures to contain a new strain of the swine flu virus that has killed 81 and prompted fears of a global pandemic. People are being urged to stay at home and maintain strict personal hygiene. Many schools, public buildings, bars and restaurants have been closed. Non-fatal cases have been confirmed in the US and are likely in New Zealand. The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed that at least some of the cases are a new strain of the virus. SWINE FLU Swine flu is a respiratory disease found in pigs Human cases usually occur in those who have contact with pigs Human-to-human transmission is rare and such cases are closely monitored Q&A: Swine flu UK monitoring swine flu outbreak Authorities around the world are increasingly vigilant