SUSPECTED cases of swine flu have been reported in five schools across West Somerset as the spread of the virus continues to accelerate in the South-West.

According to Somerset County Council, Minehead First School, Minehead Middle School, Little Vikings Nursery in Watchet, Danesfield Secondary School in Williton and Dunster First School have all reported suspected cases – although none have been required to close.

One of the latest cases was a year 6 pupil at Minehead Middle School.

The girl, who has not been tested, was resting up at home and returned to class this week.

School spokesperson Amanda Baker said: “We have been advised to carry on as normal.

“It would only affect us if we didn’t have enough staff to keep up.”

Flu symptoms have also taken hold of workers at Hinkley Point A power station – although no cases have been confirmed.

Although cases of swine flu are no longer being confirmed due to the volumes of people affected, there were an estimated 55,000 new cases in the UK last week, and 29 people have died so far.

The NHS say only a small number of cases have led to serious illness, and these have frequently been where patients have had underlying health problems – just like a normal strain of flu.

Businesses are also being warned to prepare for the likely onset of swine flu this autumn.

Mary Mallia, of the Federation of Small Businesses Somerset and Wiltshire region, said: “If the experts are correct this outbreak could be with us in earnest by September.

“This gives us as little as one month to get our contingency plans in place.”

Anyone with flu symptoms should call their family doctor for guidance see other stories in our special Swine Flu section or call 0800-1513513.