European health officials are warning that the swine flu outbreak that appears to be spiking in Britain could soon spread to the rest of the continent. The annual flu season struck the U.K. early this year, with cases surging last month and doubling almost every week, AP reported. The predominant strain infecting people is swine flu, which was responsible for the 2009 pandemic. Unlike most flu viruses, swine flu mostly affects people under 65 and many of its victims are previously healthy younger people with no underlying problems. In Britain, a vaccine shortage is forcing authorities to resort to leftover shots from last year's swine flu pandemic. Some hospitals have been forced to cancel elective surgeries to accommodate extra flu patients. Health officials say the European continent should pay attention to what's happening in Britain. -- SPA
