Listen
Update on A (H1N1) virus
13/06/2009
Scotland has 55 new confirmed cases of influenza A (H1N1) today bringing the total number of cases to 463.
Subsequently it has been established that 12 of the cases previously confirmed as positive are in fact negative.
This is attributed to a procedural testing error - 11 of the affected cases are in Glasgow, the other is in Lothian and was previously confirmed on the basis of a weak positive result but has proved negative following further testing.
Immediate steps have taken to notify all the individuals involved.
The majority of the new cases (42) are in NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde. There are eight new cases in Highland, four in Lanarkshire and one in Lothian.
There are 11 people being treated in hospital for confirmed Influenza A (H1N1).
Across Scotland, 508 cases are being investigated.
Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon said:
"We are continuing to see a rise in cases of swine flu all across the world and Scotland is not isolated from that.
"We are however one of the best prepared countries in the world and, as in every other country, the vast majority of people are experiencing relatively mild symptoms.
"Tests were carried out in Manchester because of the demand placed on local laboratories in Scotland and due to the high volume of tests being processed it is unfortunately inevitable that these these types of error will occur. However, it is important to note they were quickly identified and addressed.
"I would urge people to continue taking sensible hygiene precautions and, if you do start to develop flu-like symptoms, to stay at home and contact your GP or NHS 24."
Board breakdown of possible cases
Ayrshire and Arran (3),
Borders (1)
Dumfries and Galloway (1)
Fife (3),
Forth Valley (14),
Greater Glasgow & Clyde (413
Highland (33),
Lanarkshire (34)
Lothian (2)
Western Isles (4)