Swine flu claims two more Lives in Greater Manchester

According to reports in the Manchester Evening News two more people have died from swine flu – and a child with the virus is fighting for life.

A woman from Bolton and a man from Manchester have become the latest victims. The man had been treated in North Manchester General Hospital.
A child from Bury is critically ill with the H1N1 bug.
As reported in the M.E.N. two men from Oldham and a man from Rochdale have died in recent weeks.

Health bosses are urging vulnerable people – such as pregnant women and the elderly – to have the jab which this year combines the swine flu and seasonal flu vaccine for the first time.

Dr Kevin Perrett, consultant in public health at NHS Manchester, said: “A man died in the intensive care unit at North Manchester General Hospital on December 8 with swine flu as part of the cause of death. Our thoughts are with his family as they come to terms with their loss.”

A spokesman for NHS Bolton said: “We can confirm that a patient from Bolton has died after suffering complications from the H1N1 strain of flu, which is commonly known as swine flu. While deaths from swine flu are rare, it is one of the main strains of flu around this winter, and, unfortunately, that means some deaths will occur.”

In the North West, just 28 per cent of vulnerable people – including those with respiratory and immune conditions – have had the vaccine while only half of over-65s have had it.

Anyone who is over 65, has a serious long term condition or is pregnant can contact their GP to have a vaccine. For the majority of people the advice is to stay at home, contact NHS Direct on 0845 4647 or visit the NHS Choices website www.nhs.uk to check your symptoms. If you are still concerned, you should telephone your GP who will be able to give you advice.

For further information on how to treat the Swine Flu Virus please click the following link about Tamiflu.