A 29-year-old man is in Gisborne Hospital's Intensive Care Unit with respiratory problems, possibly suffering from Influenza A (H1N1) or Swine Flu.

The man was admitted to hospital on Friday and is in a stable condition.

Medical Officer of Health Dr Geoff Cramp described the man's condition this morning as "improving".

The man had recently returned to Gisborne from the United Kingdom.

Swabs have been taken and a result is expected back by Wednesday.

The man does not have an underlying medical condition and there could be a number of illnesses that could cause his condition.

The total number of confirmed Influenza A (H1N1) cases in the Tairawhiti District is two.

The second case was confirmed on Friday.

That case was another 29-year-old man that was diagnosed in another part of the country but lives in Gisborne.

Dr Cramp said always at this time of year there is an increase of flu like illness and alongside that we should expect an increase in the number of Swine Flu cases.

It was important people practiced good hand hygiene, used tissues, disposed of them properly and kept themselves away from others when they were unwell.

"To help avoid getting a bad dose of the flu people should ensure they are getting plenty of sleep, regular exercise, are eating healthily and get plenty of fresh air, and of course it is always better not to smoke." said Dr Cramp.

"Anyone with any respiratory or heart condition is likely to suffer the affects of flu more so anyone with an underlying condition should contact their GP if they become worse" he said.

The majority of Influenza A (H1N1) cases have been mild and most people would be able to manage the illness at home.

"We are managing cases of swine flu in exactly the same way as with any other cold of flu. If people are getting worse they should contact their GP in the usual manner.

"Tairawhiti District Health is in contact with GP practices and if the number of patients escalates and practices cannot cope, then we are ready to open a flu clinic but only if we really need it," Dr Cramp said.

People visiting the hospital are being asked to use hand sanitiser that has been placed at each of the main entrances.

Those suffering from flu like symptoms should refrain from visiting patients and stay at home.