HEALTH chiefs last night confirmed they are investigating 16 cases of swine flu in the North West.

It comes as the World Health Organisation announced the world is now experiencing a flu pandemic and escalated the alert level from phase five to phase six, the highest stage.

Dr Margaret Chan, director-general of the WHO, said: “Globally, we have got reason to believe that this pandemic, at least in its early days, is moderately severe.” She added that the virus is “unpredictable” and “unstoppable” and all countries must “maintain continuous vigilance”.

There have been no confirmed cases in Bolton yet but a number of people have been suspected of having the virus, but have tested negative.

The latest figures show there are 822 confirmed cases in the UK, with 25 being identified yesterday.

There are 28,774 cases worldwide, across 74 countries, and 144 people have died.

NHS Bolton is preparing for any local outbreak and is co-ordinating with Bolton Council.

The primary care trust is reiterating that people can help prevent the spread of infection by getting into good hygiene habits.

Every home in the town should have been delivered a leaflet on swine flu. To request a copy contact 0800 1514 513 or download one from nhs.uk.