Nairobi — Health officials were on Friday evening investigating a suspected case of H1N1 flu that was referred to Kenyatta National Hospital.

Public Health and Sanitation Minister Beth Mugo said tests were being carried out to ascertain the case.

She urged the public not to panic over the matter.

"I can confirm that a person has been taken to Kenyatta Hospital. My ministry officials have taken samples from the patient for testing at the Kenya Medical Research Institute and we expect the results in the next eight hours," Ms Mugo said last evening.

No alarm

She, however, said the case was still suspected and should not be made to cause alarm.

She also assured the ministry would do everything possible to ensure the situation was contained in case the patient was confirmed to have the flu.

The suspected patient was referred to Kenyatta Hospital from the AAR Sarit Centre clinic. The clinic was closed to prevent contamination, staff asked to use masks while clients were warned to keep off.

Ministry officials were called to the clinic and examined the patient before being referred to Kenyatta.

If confirmed, the case will be the first in Kenya. The flu has been a major health threat in the recent months worldwide.