Published Thursday, 14 May 2009
The Department of Health made the announcement at a press conference in Belfast on Thursday morning.
The Health Minister Michael McGimpsey said the man who tested positive had recently returned from a trip to Mexico.
Health officials said he flew from Gatwick to Belfast International on Friday 8th May on a 5.40pm Easyjet flight.
The Health Protection Agency are trying to trace 151 passengers and crew who were on the same flight as the man diagnosed with swine flu.
Treatment
The man is being treated with anti-virals and is recovering well at home.
So far 25 people, with whom he has been in contact, including family members, have been identified and are receiving the anti-viral drug Tamiflu.
Mr McGimpsey said: "People should not be alarmed by this development. We have been planning for a situation like this for some years and are well prepared for any potential pandemic.
"It is also reassuring that the majority of cases have had a relatively mild flu-like illness which responds well to treatment with antivirals.
"Northern Ireland has significant stockpiles of antivirals, enough to treat 50% of the population, which is currently being increased to treat up to 80% of the population," he said.
Dr Elizabeth Mitchell, Northern Ireland's Acting Chief Medical Officer added: "This is a developing situation which we continue to monitor very closely. The arrangements we have in place, and are continuing to make, will help us respond well to any emerging situation.
"Everyone needs to play their part to protect and prepare themselves and their families", Dr Elizabeth Mitchell said.
"Simple, effective measures such as frequent hand-washing with soap and water and using a tissue to cover your mouth and nose when sneezing can help reduce the spread of flu."
Meanwhile, six other new cases of swine flu have been confirmed in England.
Three children and two adults from London and one adult from the east of England were diagnosed with the virus.
A Department of Health spokesman said there were now 78 confirmed cases in the UK.
Tests on 55 suspected cases of swine flu in Northern Ireland had all come back negative before the confirmed case.
If you are concerned you can ring NI Swine Flu Helpline: 0800 0514 142