Backstreet Boy diagnosed with swine flu

Backstreet Boys star Brian Littrell has been diagnosed with swine flu, according to People.

The band have cancelled several promotional appearances, including a performance at New York's Hard Rock Cafe for the NYC Pinktober event, to allow Littrell time to recover.

In a statement, he said: "We were really looking forward to spending time with our closest fans and friends in NYC and take part of Pinktober, an unbelievable and important programme.

"I hope we can come back soon and do everything we can to help."

The 34-year-old's bandmates Nick Carter, AJ McLean and Howie Dorough, as well as their touring crew, have been prescribed Tamiflu as a preventative measure.

Their new album This Is Us is available from today.