REDBRIDGE Council and Primary Care Trust have been meeting to discuss emergency plans in case the global swine flu outbreak hits the borough.

The two bodies have urged residents "not to panic for now", but are still encouraging people to cover their noses and mouths when sneezing.

Around 150 people are suspected to have died from the virus worldwide, with five possible cases reported in Britain.

However at the moment it appears to be far less deadly than 'normal' seasonal flu, which kills between 250,000 to 500,000 people globally every year.

Len Norton, the council's director of Environment, Regeneration and Community Safety, said: “Redbridge Council is working closely with NHS Redbridge and has strategies set in place to try to minimise spreading of the virus and maintain front line services should the area be effected by the pandemic.

“We urge people to follow the advice of NHS Redbridge and if they have flu symptoms to contact their GP or NHS Direct.”

A spokesman said the organisations had "been working closely for some time regarding the issue and met recently to review their plans and ensure they are robust."

He added: "For now NHS Redbridge is asking residents not to panic but to take simple measures to prevent infection such as covering the nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, washing hands regularly and making sure that children also follow this advice.

"Residents can also prevent infection by disposing of dirty tissues promptly and carefully and cleaning hard surfaces frequently using a normal cleaning product.

"Anyone who develops flu-like symptoms should go home and contact their GP.

"Those who have recently travelled to the affected areas and are experiencing an influenza - like illness should stay at home and seek medical advice by phone from a local health professional or NHS Direct."

For more information call NHS Direct on: 0845 4647