by Nadia Sam-Daliri A 22-year-old man in the area is one of eight people in the UK being treated for swine flu. The man, from Barnet, is said to be responding well to treatment in the Royal Free Hampstead, in Pond Street, Hampstead and is

by Nadia Sam-Daliri

A 22-year-old man in the area is one of eight people in the UK being treated for swine flu.

The man, from Barnet, is said to be responding well to treatment in the Royal Free Hampstead, in Pond Street, Hampstead and is in a stable condition.

He had just returned from Mexico where he picked up the potentially deadly flu.

St Mary's Hospital, in Praed Street Paddington, Central Middlesex Hospital, in Acton Lane, Harlesden and Northwick Park, in Watford Road, Harrow have no confirmed cases as of yet.

A spokeswoman for North West London Hospitals Trust, which looks after Central Middlesex and Northwick Park, said: "The trust has been developing plans for some time to set out the measures it would need to take should there be a flu pandemic. This plan looks at issues such as staffing levels and ensuring we have stocks of the right medication and protective equipment."

It is also holding daily meetings on the virus.

People are advised to cover their nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing and use a tissue when possible.

Those who feel unwell who have travelled to affected areas are advised to stay at home and call NHS Direct on 0845 4647 or contact their GP.

nadia.sam-daliri@archant.co.uk