HEALTH chiefs have formed a “pandemic flu committee” after it was confirmed there are suspected cases of swine flu in the region.

However, NHS South West Essex is stressing its frontline staff are well prepared to deal with the situation in Basildon, Billericay, Wickford, Brentwood and Thurrock.

Dr Katherine Gronqvist, the trust’s director of Public Health, said: “We have been informed there are suspected cases of swine flu in south west Essex.

“It is important to emphasise in all cases outside Mexico, the symptoms are mild and all patients have made a full recovery.  “There is a robust process in place for the diagnosis of swine flu and treatment with antiviral drugs.”

It has not yet been revealed how many “suspected cases” there are, or where in the region the possible victims are.

At least 152 people have died from the virus in Mexico, and the UK’s largest travel firms have suspended all flights to the country until May 5.

Dr Gronqvist added: “NHS South West Essex has set up a pandemic flu committee and is following guidance from the Health Protection Agency and Essex Resilience Forum to ensure frontline staff are prepared should the situation develop. We are in constant liaison with healthcare colleagues across the region to ensure all health service staff are vigilant and prepared.”

Meanwhile, health bosses stress that holidaymakers returning from Mexico should monitor their health closely for seven days after their return.

If during this period they develop a feverish illness accompanied by one or more of cough, sore throat, headache and muscle aches, they should stay at home and call their GP by phone or seek advice from NHS Direct. They also emphasise personal hygiene is more important than ever.

Dr Gronqvist added: “General infection control practices and good hygiene can help to reduce transmission of all viruses, including swine flu.

“These include covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, using a tissue and maintaining good basic hygiene, for example, washing hands frequently with soap and water to reduce the spread of the virus from your hands to face or to others.”

Anyone with concerns should call their GP or NHS Direct on 0845 4647.

Has your holiday been cancelled because of the outbreak? Call the newsdesk on 01268 469308.