The Manx government has responded to the World Health Organisation's decision to raise the level of alert in relation to swine flu from level three to four.

A media release says preparations in the Isle of Man are being stepped up, although it's being stressed that while the likelihood of a pandemic - or level six - has increased, it isn't inevitable.

Information, advice and useful links are available from a dedicated website, accessible through the 'News Highlight' link at the bottom of the gov.im homepage.

The Island's Public Health Directorate says people who have developed symptoms after visiting affected areas should contact their GP by phone. They should also stay at home and limit their contact with others.

The pulic is also being advised there is no vaccine for the virus which, so far, has caused no deaths outside of Mexico. However, the Island does have stocks of Tamiflu, which could assist with the treatment of confirmed swine flu infections.

The government says it has has done considerable work in recent years to plan for a flu pandemic, including tabletop simulations, and a strategic plan is in place.

In the meantime, the public is reminded that general good hygiene, including covering the nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, can reduce the transmission of the swine flu virus.

To date there have been two confirmed cases in Britain, both in Scotland.