West Midlands swine flu death rate increases

Jul 24 2009

Six of the deaths linked to swine flu in England have been in the West Midlands, a spokeswoman for region's Strategic Health Authority has said.

Of the six - five adults and one child - five are believed to have had serious underlying health conditions, NHS West Midlands said.

A total of 82 people who have tested positive for swine flu or are displaying symptoms are being treated in hospitals across the region, including four people in intensive care units, the spokeswoman added.

Dr Rashmi Shukla, regional director public health for NHS West Midlands, said: "Our thoughts are with the families of the patients who have died at this very sad time.

"While tragic for all involved, these cases should be kept in context with the many people who have had swine flu and recovered after just a few days of experiencing mild illness.

"We wish to take this opportunity to remind the public that for most people this is not a serious illness and that they should start to feel better after a few days without needing to go to their GP or A&E."