Number of swine flu deaths doubles

THE number of deaths from swine flu has doubled, according to figures released yesterday by the Health Protection Surveillance Centre.

Last week saw the highest death toll from swine flu so far this season, when five people died. This brings to 10 the total number of fatalities as a result of H1N1.

However, the overall influenza-associated death toll stands at 12, including the death of two people with Influenza B infection.

Eleven of the deceased had underlying conditions. The east of the country had the highest death toll, claiming eight lives. Two people died in the south and two in the east. Of the overall number of deaths:

* One death was in a patient in the 0-4 year age group.

* Seven patients were in the 15-64 year age group.

* Four patients were aged 65 years and older.

The flu jab, which protects against swine flu, and is available from GPs is also available at Boots pharmacy outlets. However a spokesperson for Boots confirmed yesterday that the cost of the jab is twice as high in its Irish stores (€30) compared to Britain (€15). He cited higher wage costs, a smaller market and taxation issues as reasons behind the higher price.

To date, 98 people have been admitted to intensive care units (ICUs) with influenza; 87 adults and 11 children. There are 43 currently in ICU.

Seven in 10 have underlying medical conditions, including chronic respiratory disease, chronic heart disease, immuno-suppression, pregnancy, metabolic disorders and morbid obesity.

Of those admitted to ICU, 85% were aged less than 65. Influenza-like illness rates were highest in the 5-14 year-old age group, the only group where infection rates did not decrease in the past week.

Out of a total of 1,677 confirmed influenza cases, 749 cases have been hospitalised. Of these, 72% have been due to the swine flu.

The highest cumulative age-specific rate for influenza-confirmed hospitalised cases to date is in the four and under age group (45.7 per 100,000 population).

Pregnant women made up 68 influenza cases, of whom 41 were hospitalised, 38 with swine flu.

On a positive note, the number of people presenting with flu-like illness to GPs has dropped to a rate of 110 per 100,000, down from 171.4 per 100,000 last week. However, the proportion of hospitalised influenza B cases increased by almost 5% during the third week of January. The Health Protection Surveillance Centre said this “highlights the importance of getting seasonal vaccine for those in the at-risk groups”.

The centre also said the number of mortalities in the weekly report is compiled from deaths where influenza is listed as a contributory cause of death on the death certificate.

“It is expected that some additional deaths, which have not yet been formally notified as influenza-associated deaths, pending the issuing of death certificates by coroners, may be reported in the coming weeks.”