THE number of swine flu cases in East Anglia has reached 50.

Health officials in Essex insist there is still no need for panic, even though the virus has now reportedly claimed its first British life.

Jaqueline Fleming, 38, died at the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Paisley, Scotland.

She had been suffering from underlying health problems and had recently given birth.

In south Essex, there have been six confirmed cases of swine flu – one each in Basildon and Southend and four in Castle Point.

The total number of cases in Essex stands at 16.

Health chiefs say there is enough Tamiflu to continue to treat anyone displaying symptoms and there were no plans to ration the treatment if outbreaks should escalate across the county.

The latest case of swine flu was reported by a Clacton schoolgirl. The youngster, who attends Great Bentley Primary School, developed signs of the illness while on holiday.

She and her family have been given anti-viral drugs.

Essex County Council spokesman Katie Canning said: “Although the World Health Organisation has increased its pandemic alert level to 6, there is no change in the day-to-day operations for children’s services, including schools, group early-years and childcare settings or children’s social care.

“Schools are continuing to operate as normal and are being provided with guidance to give staff, pupils and parents.

“All schools in Essex are fully aware of the latest advice from the local Health Protection Agency and will be complying with Government and local authority guidelines to ensure the highest level of cleaning and hygiene are promoted at school.”

Dr Mark Stott, consultant in public health for NHS South East Essex, said: “Advice to patients remains the same.

“If you are returning from an affected area and become unwell within seven days of your return, or have been in contact with someone who has been confirmed or is being tested for swine flu and if you have flu-like symptoms you should stay at home and ring your GP or NHS Direct, on 0845 4647. “We would like to reassure residents unless they have flu-like symptoms and are being tested for swine flu, there is absolutely no need to stop normal everyday activities, such as going to work.”

Anyone who is concerned about swine flu or thinks they may have contracted it, should phone their GP surgery, call NHS Direct on 0845 4647, or go to www.nhs.uk