Scotland’s swine flu total is nearing the 500 mark as health officials confirm 35 new cases.
The latest patients to be diagnosed with the virus were spread across Scotland. Thirty-two were in NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, one in NHS Highland, one in NHS Forth Valley, and one in NHS Grampian.
The development, announced by Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon on Sunday, takes Scotland’s tally of confirmed cases to 498.
Referring to a community outbreak in the West Midlands, Ms Sturgeon said: "We continue to see a rise in cases of Influenza A (H1N1) around the world, and Scotland is not isolated from that.
"Given the number of cases being confirmed in the West Midlands, there is an indication that the area is experiencing a level of spread similar to what we are seeing in Scotland.
"We remain one of the best prepared countries in the world and, as in every other country, the vast majority of people contracting the virus are experiencing relatively mild symptoms.
"The message to the wider public stays the same - if you cough or sneeze, catch it in a tissue and wash your hands."
Ten people are receiving hospital treatment for the Influenza A (H1N1) strain.
Health experts are currently investigating 175 possible cases of the virus.
RESOURCES
World Health Organisation: Swine flu facts
World Health Organisation: Pandemic influenza phases
Swine flu - questions and answers
Swine flu - school closures in Scotland
