Further Swine flu deaths in the North27/01/11

2 Further Swine flu related deaths have occurred in the North, according to the Public Health Authority.

Figures released today advise “as of noon Wednesday 26^th January 23 people have died from H1N1 flu during the current flu season.”

Of these 20 had underlying medical conditions, 2 did not, while details for the remaining death are presently unconfirmed.

The PHA’s Dr Maureen McCartney, Consultant in Health Protection advised, “It is reassuring that the number of new flu cases per week has once again more than halved. If the current trend continues, swine flu has passed its peak.”

There were reported to be 41 new cases of Swine Flu in the week 15- 21 January compared with 86 the previous week.

Vaccination levels and “at risk” groups continue to be monitored.

The consultant responded to prior criticism regarding vaccination levels in the PHA’s statement.

“The considerable efforts to increase uptake from the beginning of December will be reflected in the final vaccination figures, which are usually available at the end of March.”

Dr Margaret O’Brien, Assistant Director, Integrated Care, HSCB advised that the health service “continues to be busy.”

Dr O’ Brien added in the North,  “approximately 1.2 per cent [of all hospital cases] are being treated as confirmed or suspected swine flu.”

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