There are two confirmed cases of swine flu in Hounslow – it was revealed this week.

The news comes as the World Health Organisation (WHO) raised the alert level to phase six, the highest level declaration of a pandemic.

NHS Hounslow refused to reveal the ages of the sufferers or their condition.

Dr Mike Robinson, NHS Hounslow’s director of public health, said: “The shift from WHO level five to six reflects an increase in the number of cases of swine flu across the world, but in Hounslow we still have only a very small number of cases, so we need to keep this in proportion.

“The NHS in Hounslow is continuing to refine and update its plans in case the situation changes. At the moment it’s very much business as usual and I’d encourage everyone to go about their daily life.

“We should also think about what we can all do to keep the virus in check and reduce its chance to spread.

“Good hygiene is key, whether you’re at work, out with friends or travelling on a bus, train or Tube.”

Anyone with flu-like symptoms should stay at home and contact NHS Direct on 0845 4647 or phone their GP.