Published Thursday, 25 June 2009
The patient is one of five new cases of the virus in the region, taking the overall total to 24.
But he is the first whose condition has required hospital treatment.
He was admitted to the Ulster Hospital suffering chest symptoms. His condition has been described as stable.
Staff and patients who were in contact with him have received anti-virals, as have his close friends and family.
The patient had recently travelled back to the region from England and Scotland.
Increase in cases
Minister Michael McGimpsey said: "This is the first case of confirmed swine flu which has resulted in admission to hospital in Northern Ireland. The patient's condition is stable.
"Staff and patients who have been in close contact with this patient have received antivirals. The other four cases have mild symptoms and are recovering at home."
Those people had travelled in the USA, Australia or England.
Mr McGimpsey added: "We expect the number of cases of swine flu to continue to increase over the next few weeks and it is important that the public take steps to protect themselves."
Charlotte McArdle, Director of Nursing and lead in Infection Control at the South Eastern Health Trust said: "We have taken advice from the Public Health Agency and we are following all protocols.
"The situation is being managed and will be reviewed frequently. I would like to reassure the public, our patients and staff that there is minimal risk and that all isolation measures are being implemented."