Three more possible cases of swine flu (the H1N1 strain) have been reported to the Spanish health authorities, making a total of eight altogether.  Three cases were detected earlier this week in Almansa (Albacete), Bilbao and Valencia and now three more have been found in Catalunya, one in Aragón and one in Algeciras (Cádiz).

The 22-year-old woman in Algeciras had recently returned from a holiday to Cancún (Mexico) and her flu symptoms are being monitored at the Punta de Europa hospital. 

Samples to confirm whether or not it is a case of swine flu have been sent to the Hospital Virgen de las Nieves in Granada and sample from all eight suspected patients are being studied in a specialised laboratory in Majadahonda (Madrid).  In the meantime the patients are receiving an anti-viral treatment recommened by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

As soon as had the autonomous health authority in Andalusia received information about the outbreak of swine flu in Mexico and the southern USA it set into motion the regional Preparation and Response Plan for a possible Flu Pandemic, designed to coordinate information about and treatment of suspected flu cases.

There have already been 81 deaths from swine flu confirmed in Mexico and there are currently more than 20 cases in the USA. 

H1N1 is the same strain that causes seasonal flu outbreaks in humans, but the newly detected version contains genetic material from versions of flu which usually affect pigs and birds.

Health authorities across the country are advising anyone with flu symptoms who has recently travelled to the affected areas to report to their local health centre immediately or to call 902 505 060.

Apart from Spain, Mexico and the USA, suspected cases of swine flu have been reported in New Zealand, Canada, France and Israel, all of which have been linked to recent visits to Mexico.