GHA confirms one flu death and highlights importance of vaccination
Undated file photo of a man blowing his nose as researchers have said that the much-debated phenomenon of "man flu" may have some basis in fact. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Monday December 11, 2017. A Canadian study was carried out to determine whetherÊmen really do experience worse symptoms than women or whether it is just a myth. See PA story HEALTH Flu. Photo credit should read: Martin Keene/PA Wire
The majority of people admitted into St Bernard’s Hospital with influenza had not been vaccinated despite being eligible, Health Minister Neil Costa told the Chronicle, as the GHA confirmed that one flu patient had died.
The GHA said a patient diagnosed with influenza passed away recently while undergoing treatment at the Critical Care Unit at St Bernard’s.
This follows a surge in cases of winter influenza which saw some 500 people seen by emergency medical staff late last December.
A GHA spokesman told the Chronicle that the number of influenza patients is dropping from the high levels seen last year and over the month of January only 11 further cases have required treatment in St Bernard’s Hospital.
‘‘Nevertheless, it should be pointed out that the flu season tends to run until March and more cases may still occur, although less often, and outbreaks are also possible,” the spokesman said.
“One patient with influenza sadly passed away, despite critical care support.”
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