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Two further flu deaths
28/10/2009
Two further H1N1 deaths have been reported in Scotland today, bringing the total number to 25.
Two adults, one from NHS Lanarkshire and one from NHS Fife have died. Both patients had contracted H1N1 and had underlying health conditions.
Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon said:
"Our thoughts are with both families at this very sad time. The recent increase in H1N1 related deaths are a stark reminder of the importance of being vigilant during the pandemic. It's vital you get the help you need if you believe you are at greater risk of suffering complications from influenza.
"Fortunately in the vast majority of H1N1 cases, most people have fairly mild symptoms and make a full recovery within a week, but it's important you follow and maintain simple hygiene measures to reduce the risk of infection.
"Vaccination is our best defence against this virus and I urge everyone who is in a priority group to accept the vaccine when invited to do so by their GP.
"If you are concerned about flu-like symptoms contact your GP for advice or call NHS 24 on 08454 24 24 24. Further information on the vaccine programme is available via the new Scottish Swine Flu Vaccination Helpline on 08000 28 28 16."
To protect patient confidentiality the Scottish Government will now be reporting the following information in any H1N1 death:
- Whether the patient was a child, elderly person or adult
- Which health board area they came from
- Gender, if the person was a pregnant female
However the weekly report from Health Protection Scotland, from next week, will breakdown any fatalities into an age range and the gender will be given.