Swine flu threatens TB sufferers

People suffering from other diseases could be affected by the spread of swine flu, experts have warned.

The virus could be particularly harmful to people who already have TB or HIV, according to the Stop TB Partnership.

This is because people who have weak immune systems are likely to be more susceptible to catching swine flu.

Glenn Thomas, a spokesman for the Stop TB Partnership, told Reuters that countries in the developing world could be affected most.

"Many of the world's poorest people are particularly vulnerable to lethal airborne diseases," he stated.

"With health resources already stretched in low income countries, a new disease pandemic could jeopardise effective TB control and other health programmes."

Swine flu has been promoted to a level five warning by the World Health Organisation (WHO), which suggests that a pandemic is likely.

WHO has also urged health organisations to continue to focus on other diseases despite the onset of swine flu.

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