Swine flu related death in Northern Ireland

A female patient, who had been diagnosed as having swine flu, died last night in a hospital in Northern Ireland. She had an underlying health condition.

The family has asked for privacy at this time and no further details will be made available.

Health Minister Michael McGimpsey said, “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the patient at this tragic and very sad time. The family has asked for the patient’s identity to be kept private. We are respecting their wishes and will not be releasing any further details to let the family come to terms with their loss.”

Notes to Editors:

• The total number of deaths in the rest of the UK is 59 as at 20 August 2009. Two people have died in the Republic of Ireland.
• People can help protect themselves and their families from the virus by remembering to follow simple but effective hygiene procedures. Measures such as frequent hand-washing can also help. Remember to cover your mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then put the tissue into a bin – Catch it, bin it, kill it!
• For further information, visit the NI Direct website