Michael Jackson has delayed a house-hunting trip in England due to the swine flu outbreak.

The 50-year-old legend was due to fly in to the country later this month to find a home while he undertakes his mammoth O2 Arena residency.

However, according to the Daily Express, Jackson has now delayed the trip due to health fears.

A source tells the paper: "Michael wanted to come over for viewings in the next few weeks because he wants to make sure the property is just right - after all he will be renting it from now until February next year. But that is off for the time being.

"Michael doesn’t want to travel because of the worry surrounding the flu outbreak. He’s very particular about not catching germs anyway but he’s particularly wary of what’s going on right now.

“He is keeping up to date with all the latest worldwide news about the flu on the internet. He still wants to come over to view the properties but he’s monitoring the situation and has postponed travel for the time being.”

(by Scott Colothan)