Three pupils at the Institute of Islamic Education, a private boarding school in Savile Town, have been diagnosed with the virus.

They are the first confirmed cases of swine flu in Kirklees.

Dr Judith Hooper, director of public health for NHS Kirklees said the three pupils were being treated with antiviral medicine at the school.

She said: "They are responding well to treatment.

"We are aware that a number of individuals at the college are also showing the common symptoms of flu and these individuals are limiting their contact with others.

"Due to the practicalities of dealing with so many symptomatic students, the college has taken the decision to close for seven days.

"However we will continue to work with them to monitor the health of staff and pupils.

"As a precautionary measure, antiviral medicine has been offered to all pupils and staff at the college."

If anyone believes they have the symptoms of flu they should:

• stay at home

• check online using the symptom checker at www.nhs.uk or by ringing the national swine flu information line on 0800 1 513 513

• if they are still concerned, ring NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 or their local GP