BUSINESSES should put their contingency plans into action now that swine flu has hit Guernsey, according to a disaster control expert.

MSD International managing director Dick Bush (pictured), whose company advises organisations that include States bodies, said immediate action was needed.

On Sunday a man was confirmed as Guernsey’s first case.

‘As soon as I hit the road tomorrow I will be on to all my clients and suggesting they implement their plans urgently,’ said Mr Bush.

‘We will advise any companies that don’t have one.’

He said people should not panic but should be prudent.

‘Everywhere else that there has been an odd case it has spread.

‘If someone has caught it that suggests it is in the island, especially if that person went back to work.’

He said there were simple things to do. ‘The most obvious involve hygiene and cough etiquette and people listening to the director of public health’s advice.’