Swine flu death toll in Scotland reaches 40

Published on Friday 20 November 2009 14:05

ANOTHER swine flu death was announced today, bringing the death toll in Scotland to 40 since the outbreak began.

The adult, who had underlying health problems, was from the NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde area.

Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon said: "Any death from H1N1 is a tragedy and my thoughts are with this patient's family and friends at this very sad time.

"Fortunately this is a mild illness for most, but people with underlying health conditions are at greater risk of complications which is why we are prioritising the vaccine for this group."

It was announced yesterday that children aged over six months and under five years will be the next priority group to get the swine flu jab.

The age group will be prioritised after GPs have finished vaccinating at-risk groups, which include people aged six months to 65 with conditions like asthma, diabetes and heart disease.

Pregnant women and frontline health workers are also currently being given the jab.