SWINE flu has hit the district with its first case confirmed by authorities.
NHS West Essex has said that a man in his 30s, from North Weald, has been diagnosed with the virus. He is said to be responding well to treatment at his home.
Medical director at NHS West Essex Rory McCrea said: "I can confirm that a man in west Essex has tested positive for swine flu.
“We have in place robust plans to tackle swine flu and keep them under regular review. Our incident team meets regularly to monitor the situation.”
The man is the second in Essex to be diagnosed with the virus after a man in Clacton was confirmed with the condition yesterday.
There are currently 34 confirmed cases of swine flu in the United Kingdom.
Anyone concerned they may have the virus is asked to call their GP or NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 or visit the website nhs.uk.
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