Man with swine flu dies at Rochdale Infirmary

Rochdale Infirmary

A Rochdale man has died after contracting swine flu, it has been confirmed.

The man died at the Rochdale Infirmary. He had other long term illnesses but swine flu was part of the cause of death.

Director of public health for the Rochdale borough, Dr Jane Rossini, said: “It is with regret that NHS Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale confirms that one person from the Rochdale borough has died at the Rochdale Infirmary, with swine flu as a part of the cause of death. He had other long term health issues.

“I am saddened by this event here in the borough.”

The man is third in Greater Manchester to die from swine flu.

It was confirmed yesterday (Tuesday 14 December 2010) that two men had died at the Royal Oldham Hospital.

Dr Rossini added: “Can I urge people to take care of themselves – if you’re eligible for a flu jab please make sure you have one.

"In terms of general advice, it is most important that people who are over 65 or have a long term condition have a flu jab to help keep them healthy over the winter. People who had a seasonal flu jab last year need to get a new jab this winter. This year’s seasonal flu vaccine protects against three strains of flu that are circulating this winter, including H1N1 (swine flu).

“Those at greater risk of developing serious complications from flu should contact their local GP practice as soon as possible to arrange a flu jab to protect themselves from the virus in the months to come.

Dr Rossini said even if you feel healthy you should definitely consider having the free seasonal flu vaccination if you: 

• are aged 65 years or over
• have a heart problem
• have a chest complaint or breathing difficulties, including bronchitis or emphysema
• have a kidney disease
• have lowered immunity due to disease or treatment (such as steroid medication or cancer treatment)
• have a liver disease 
• have had a stroke or a transient ischaemic attack (TIA)
• have diabetes
• have a neurological condition, for example multiple sclerosis (MS) or cerebral palsy, a problem with your spleen, for example sickle cell disease, or you have had your spleen removed
• live in a residential or nursing home
• are the main carer of an older or disabled person, or
• are pregnant