Scotland sees record number of swine flu hospital admissions

Published on Thursday 8 October 2009 17:42

SCOTLAND has witnessed its highest number of swine flu hospital admissions in a week since the outbreak began.

A total of 36 patients were admitted to hospital last week taking the total number of people hospitalised by the virus in Scotland to 208.

Estimates suggest that around 6,800 people caught the H1N1 virus last week, down from almost 13,800 the previous week.

The Scottish Government's swine flu figures are based on data from 732 GP practices – equal to 71% of Scotland's total.

The results showed the rate of GP consultations for flu-like illness was equal to 86.1 people per 100,000.

Ministers said it marks a decrease from last week's figure of 103.7 but is still higher than expected for this time of year.

The number of samples testing positive for swine flu has decreased from 34.1% last week to 16.4%.

There have been 10 deaths linked to the H1N1 bug in Scotland since the start of the outbreak.

Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon said it was vital for people in at-risk groups to be vaccinated against the bug.

She said: "This week's figures show a decrease in the number of people consulting their GP with flu-like symptoms and the number of overall estimated cases.

"Flu epidemics by their very nature are unpredictable and weekly increases and decreases are to be expected.

"However this does not mean that we can be complacent about the threat presented by the H1N1 outbreak and it is likely that we will see further increases over the next few weeks.

"Hospitalisations continue to increase and this means that it is even more vital that those deemed at risk do all they can to protect themselves including taking advantage of the forthcoming vaccination programme.

"The news that the second manufacturer, Baxters, have now also had a license granted by the European Commission means that the vaccination programme can begin as soon as vaccines are distributed and reach GP practices."

Ms Sturgeon added that H1N1 continues to be a "relatively mild virus" for most people affected.