THE number of swine flu cases in the region has fallen to its lowest total since the recent outbreak began.
NHS officials in the North-East said there were a total of 716 suspected swine flu cases issued with antiviral medication between Thursday, January 7 and Wednesday, January 20.
The total number of patients in hospital with swine flu symptoms also fell to seven, the lowest figure since the recent outbreak began.
In fact, the number of swine flu cases is so low that NHS North East, the region's strategic health authority, has announced it is suspending weekly bulletins on the outbreak.
But Martin Wilson, director of NHS flu resilience in the North-East said that despite the drop in new cases it was important that people do not become complacent.
"The threat of this virus is still very real and it's crucial that people who are in a priority group for the swine flu vaccine protect themselves as soon as possible by getting the jab," said Mr Wilson.
"GP practices across the North-East are working hard to ensure all those at risk from swine flu, including children over six months and under five years of age, are vaccinated as quickly as possible.
"We strongly advise anyone who is contacted by their GP to take up the offer of the vaccine."
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