The first official case of swine flu in the UK has been recorded in Scotland.

Two people have been quarantined in Airdrie, Lanarkshire after being admitted to hospital presenting advanced flu symptoms.

14 further suspected cases across Scotland are being investigated, including at least one in an area under the jurisdiction of the NHS Lothians health board.

Deputy first minister and health secretary, Nicola Sturgeon, said: “I can confirm that tests have demonstrated conclusively that the two Scottish cases of suspected swine flu are positive.”

The male and female patients are said to be “recovering well” in isolation. Seven people they had recently been in contact with are undergoing tests for the A/H1N1 virus, having shown similar symptoms.

Ms Sturgeon has said that although the threat to the public is low, NHS boards are prepared to respond quickly to any further suspected cases. She added: “We remain very encouraged by the fact that, outside Mexico, everyone who has contracted swine flu has experienced mild symptoms only.”

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The couple had been holidaying in Mexico and began displaying symptoms soon after returning home to Polmont, Falkirk. Mexico has been the worst hit by the swine flu outbreak, with the death toll from suspected cases currently standing at 149.

Schools across Mexico have been shut as authorities attempt to restrict the spread of the virus.

Cases have also been documented in the US, Canada, Spain, France and Cuba.

Director-General of the World Health Organisation (WHO), Dr Margaret Chan has said that containment is not “feasible” and that efforts should be on “mitigation measures”.

The WHO statement reads: “The Director-General recommended not to close borders and not to restrict international travel. It was considered prudent for people who are ill to delay international travel and for people developing symptoms following international travel to seek medical attention.”

The Emergency Committee of the WHO held a meeting on 27 April to consider the spread and scope of the virus and to establish a solution.

As fears about a global pandemic rise, GlaxoSmithKline Plc and Roche Holdings AG are leading the way in the lucrative race to develop a vaccine, though a final product is still reportedly months away.