SWINE flu has hit Honda, with at least one worker struck down with the virus.

Another worker was sent home from the South Marston plant yesterday with flu-like symptoms, raising fears for the company’s 3,400 workers.

The news comes as Swindon’s Primary Care Trust announced it was no longer confirming cases of swine flu.

The affected worker, who has not been named, was not working on the site when he developed swine flu symptoms.

This is the fourth confirmed case of swine flu in Swindon.

The company is now handing out individual hand gel dispensers to workers in a bid to halt any potential spread of the virus.

A Honda spokeswoman said: “We can confirm that an associate currently off work has been diagnosed with swine flu. The associate remains off site and is currently receiving treatment.

“The associate concerned was off site when they first experienced the symptoms and therefore it is unlikely that other associates have become exposed to it.

“A further associate was sent home yesterday displaying flu-like symptoms, although this has not been confirmed as swine flu at this stage.

“With such a large workforce it was highly likely that we would have one or two cases.

“In light of this we have already implemented our contingency plan and in order to minimise the risk of infection Honda UK Manufacturing has provided an individual hand gel dispenser for all associates as well as increasing a higher level of antiseptic and antibacterial cleaning throughout all plants.”

A PCT spokeswoman said: “We are no longer able to confirm cases of swine flu because we are no longer testing people.

“We are now giving anti-virals to people who show the right symptoms. The same precautions still apply – anyone with symptoms is advised to stay at home and to contact their GP.”

The PCT last week launched its “flu friends” scheme, in which people are asked to nominate a friend or relative who can keep them in supplies if they contract the virus.

Luke Stokes, 25, became the town’s first swine flu victim after falling ill two days into his holiday in Cancun.

Mr Stokes, of Pioneer Road in Oakhurst, north Swindon, spent seven days quarantined at home while taking the Tamiflu antiviral drug.

Anyone who is concerned can call the swine flu information line on 0800 1513 513.