The Malta Police Association this morning expressed concern and called for protection for officers escorting prisoners suffering from flu, which has been identified as what was previously known as Swine Flu.

In a statement, the association referred to a press conference a few days ago by Home Affairs Minister Carmelo Abela where he announced that three prisoners were hospitalised in critical condition.

The association said hospital staff are taking precautions when treating such patients.

Police officers, it said, were in close contact with prisoners and also needed to be protected. It said they should be given protective clothing and instructed on the best precautions to take to avoid contracting the flu.