FINNIE URGES PEOPLE NOT TO PANIC OVER FIRST SWINE FLU DEATH

Written by Ross Finnie on Mon 15th Jun 2009

FINNIE URGES PEOPLE NOT TO PANIC OVER FIRST SWINE FLU DEATH

West of Scotland Liberal Democrat MSP Ross Finnie has urged people not to panic over the first swine flu death in the UK.

A Scottish mother has been the first victim of swine flu, dying days after giving birth to a baby prematurely. The women had been under intensive care at the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Paisley since last month. Officials said she had been suffering from underlying health conditions.

Commenting Mr Finnie said:

"It is a tragedy that swine flu has claimed its first victim and our thoughts are with her family at this time.

"I would, however, urge the public not to panic medical advice remains that in general the outbreak is not severe.

"Although Paisley is one of the main areas affected by swine flu, the public needs to remain calm and continue to follow simple hygiene procedures to help slow the spread of the virus.

"Anyone worried that they may have symptoms should call there local GP or NHS 24's dedicated swine flu hotline."

Ends

Notes to Editors

NHS 24 Hotline: 0845 4 24 24 24

For more information visit:

http://www.nhs24.com/content/default.asp?page=home_SwineFlu