South Africa's first case of the H1N1 influenza or swineflu was confirmed today (18th June), the national health department said.

Spokesman Fidel Hadebe said the patient, a 12-year-old child, arrived in South Africa from the United States on Sunday.

The child presented flu-like symptoms and was admitted to a private hospital on Monday morning. Hadebe said the results of laboratory tests confirmed the case in the early hours of Thursday.

"The patient was kept in isolation and discharged after a few days in hospital. He is well and recovering in isolation at home," he said. "All contacts have been followed up and given necessary advice and treatment."

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