Swine flu fears sends FTSE 100 down

Swine flu fears are sending the FTSE 100 down with airlines and travel companies being hardest hit, although drugmakers such as GlaxoSmithKline and AstraZeneca are moving higher.

So far today in London, the FTSE 100 has fallen around 1% on the back of the swine flu fears and concerns over the potential economic impact.

Airlines are being hit hard with concern that the outbreak may turn into a pandemic and lead to global travel restrictions.

British Airways has fallen over 10%.

Travel companies are also being affected, including Thomas Cook and TUI, owner of Thomson Holidays and also Carnival the cruise operator.

Drugmakers GlaxoSmithKline, AstraZeneca and Shire have though seen their shares rise.

This pattern of stock falls and rises echoes that seen during the bird flu panic when airlines and travel group stocks were also hit whilst drug companies rose.

During the brid flu panic oil companies and hotel groups also saw their stocks significantly fall.

Investors should of course make their own judgements on buying or selling shares, if in doubt seek independent financial advice.