New UK cases of swine flu confirmed
Two new cases of swine flu, one a child, have been diagnosed in the UK, Health Secretary Alan Johnson has said.
Mr Johnson told MPs that the child now affected is a pupil at one of the five schools which have already closed.
The Health Secretary said there was no evidence of "sustained" person to person transmission of the virus in this country.
But he warned in a Commons statement: "This does remain a serious situation which could rapidly escalate."
The new cases bring the UK total of those infected to 34.
Mr Johnson told MPs a new alternative quick response system is being developed in case the outbreak escalates, before a dedicated flu helpline is opened in the autumn.
As schools remain closed as a result of the outbreak and GCSE exams begin, exam regulator Ofqual will meet to discuss contingency plans for pupils disrupted by swine flu.
It is understood children could sit exams elsewhere, or, if they are sick with the virus, be awarded a grade based on papers or coursework they have completed.
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