First swine flu death

THE first swine flu (H1N1) death in the uThungulu District was confirmed on Friday.
This follows the passing away of a young, pregnant mother at the Empangeni War Memorial Hospital.
uMhlathuze City Manager of Community Health and Public Safety, Sr Ziphi Dladla, confirmed the death on Saturday.
She said the 18 year-old mother of Ntambanana had passed away, but the baby had been delivered by caesarean section.
As far as Dladla was aware, the young mother had no underlying health condition.
Her name has not yet been released.
‘Clinics across the district are overwhelmed with people coming in with flu symptoms, particularly after hours when only a skeleton staff is on duty.
‘Those with flu-like symptoms are scared they have contracted swine flu and we would urge community members not to panic, as most people only contract a mild swine flu.
‘For such mild cases, bed rest and lots of fluids are prescribed.
‘If however, you have a high temperature which does not go down, go to your nearest clinic or hospital.’
She again urged the public to ensure they are careful about personal hygiene, if they are suffering from flu symptoms.
‘When coughing into a tissue, make sure it is either flushed or burned after use.
‘Washing hands regularly will also assist in preventing catching swine flu, as well as spreading it.’
The Institute of Communicable Diseases confirmed last week that eight deaths and 5 118 positive cases of the H1N1 virus have been confirmed.
This includes 17 cases in Mtunzini, of which two are in hospital.
People at risk includes anyone with underlying illnesses, such as diabetes, HIV/AIDS, chronic lung or chest infections and pregnant women.
The cost of the test for the swine flu virus, between R700 and R1000, is also prohibitive, with speculation rife in the international media regarding the massive financial benefit being reaped by the pharmaceutical industry as the H1N1 pandemic continues.