UK swine flu infections reach 112

Antivirals are being used to reduce symptoms and prevent further spread

Three new cases of swine flu have been confirmed in England, taking the UK total to 112, health officials say.

The latest cases were all children from the same Worcestershire family who had recently been to the US.

Meanwhile three members of one family in Scotland have become probable H1N1 cases, after holidaying in Florida.

Globally more than 11,000 people have been diagnosed in 41 countries, the World Health Organization has reported. There have been 85 deaths.

'Recovering well'

Dr Richard Harling, Director of Public Health for Worcestershire, said: "The HPA (Health Protection Agency) has confirmed three cases of swine flu in three children from a family in Worcestershire.

"The children contracted swine flu following a visit to the United States and were treated on their return as soon as they showed symptoms. They are all recovering well at home.

"They have not attended school or nursery whilst unwell and there is therefore no risk to other children. Close contacts within the family have been treated as a precaution."

A Department of Health spokesman said the UK's cases remained mild, and the spread was being contained well with anti-viral drugs.

A statement added: "We must not be complacent - it is right to prepare for the possibility of a global pandemic.

"The UK's arrangements are continuing to ensure that we are well-placed to deal with this new infection."

Fellow passengers

In Scotland, a mother, father and daughter were identified as possible cases after returning from Florida, said Scottish Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon.

Efforts were being made to trace passengers sitting near them on the homeward flight, when the family were showing flu symptoms.

The couple and their 10-year-old daughter, from the Forth Valley area, are being treated and monitored at home and are all showing mild symptoms.

Close contacts of the family are being traced, but the child has not been back to school since returning home.

Confirmed results will not be known until Friday at the earliest.