Scottish woman with swine flu dies

Published on Thursday 17 September 2009 13:37

A NINTH swine flu victim has died in Scotland amid an increase in the number of people visiting their doctor with symptoms, officials said today.

The woman, who was from the Lothian area, had "significant" underlying health problems, Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon said.

She also revealed there has been a "marked increase" in the number of GP visits for flu-like symptoms across Scotland in the last two weeks.

"The death of this woman is devastating for her family and friends, and I'd like to express my sincere condolences," Ms Sturgeon said.

"While this tragic death shows that in some cases the H1N1 virus can cause complications, I would like to stress that the majority of people contracting H1N1 are continuing to experience mild symptoms."

No further details of the dead woman will be released.

Health officials said about 6,180 people have caught H1N1 in the past week.

The rate of GP consultations for flu-like illnesses – not necessarily H1N1 – was 53.3 per 100,000 people, an increase from last week's figure of 43.9.

Up to September 8, 143 people with swine flu have been admitted to hospital since the start of the outbreak.

In the last week 13 patients have been admitted and five remain in hospital for treatment.

Ms Sturgeon said: "We have seen the figures show a significant increase in the number of people consulting their GP with flu-like symptoms and the number of overall estimated cases.

"The potential threat from H1N1 remains serious, even if it continues to be a relatively mild virus.

"Vaccination is the best defence we have against the H1N1 virus and Scotland is preparing very well for the vaccination programme.

"Simple hygiene measures like frequent hand-washing and using tissues can do a huge amount to help prevent flu spreading.

"In the vast majority of cases, most people have fairly mild symptoms and make a full recovery within a week. But it is important that anyone who is at greater risk gets the help they need as quickly as possible."