Bermuda can expect to see further cases of swine flu following the Island's first recorded case this week, according to Chief Medical Officer Dr. John Cann.

However, the successful containment and treatment of the 13-year-old US visitor who came down with the Influenza A (H1N1) virus shows that Bermuda's swine flu surveillance system is working, Dr. Cann said yesterday.

"From my perspective, our systems are working and we're pleased with that," he said. "The family of the 13-year-old took the appropriate steps and sought medical advice, and an intervention was put in place. Our surveillance system has worked. Our cautionary information at the airport has worked."

Dr. Cann announced on Monday that the young visitor to the Island was seen in the Emergency Room at the King Edward VII Memorial Hospital within the last two weeks, with symptoms suggestive of influenza. The boy tested positive for Influenza A (H1N1), or swine flu, and was given antiviral medication. He was placed in isolation, first in the hospital and then voluntarily by his family, before leaving the Island.

Dr. Cann says that while Bermuda can expect more swine flu cases in the wake of this first one, the H1N1 virus should be regarded with no more fear than any other seasonal influenza, or 'flu' as it is commonly known.

"We should expect to get some cases Bermudians travel a lot, and visitors come here," he said. "Let's just be realistic. It is likely that there will be further cases. We're really dealing with influenza. If we keep it in that context then we can get through it."

He added that Immigration and Customs staff at L.F. Wade Airport are well-equipped to offer advice to arriving visitors and residents who may have symptoms.

"We've tried to give advice and we're satisfied that our advice has been followed," he said. "In terms of giving advice, all airport staff know what to do, especially those on the front line. The Immigration officers have little cards to make available with information. I'm confident our systems are working."

Dr. Cann was adamant that this first local case of swine flu should not cause any alarm, particularly as the 13-year-old visitor in question has recovered from his illness and left the Island.

"This case fits the definition of seasonal influenza," he said. "This child had a mild case, and a quick recovery."

As of Monday, 62 countries have officially reported 17,410 cases of influenza A (H1N1) infection, including 115 deaths. All 50 US states have now recorded cases of swine flu following a widespread outbreak of the virus in neighbouring Mexico in April.