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H1N1 death

12/11/2009

A patient who had contracted H1N1 has died.

An adult from NHS Dumfries & Galloway has died bringing the total number of H1N1 related deaths in Scotland to 34. The patient was reported as having an underlying health condition.

Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon said:

"I send my condolences to the patient's loved ones at this sad time.

"Fortunately, for most, H1N1 is mild and symptoms shouldn't persist longer than a week, but some people are at greater risk of influenza complications and that is why priority groups have been identified as part of the vaccination programme.

"Everyone who is in the priority groups will be invited, by their GP, to take up the vaccine. The vaccination programme is well underway and people will be invited on a rolling basis."

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 Scottish Swine Flu Vaccination Helpline on 08000 28 28 16.

Page updated: Friday, November 13, 2009