Flu death toll rises to 39 in UK

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http://www.metro.co.uk/news/851520-flu-death-toll-rises-to-39

Flu death toll rises to 39

Twelve people have died from flu in the UK over the past week, taking the death

toll from the illness this winter to 39.

Figures published by the Health Protection Agency (HPA) showed that 36 of the

deaths were caused by swine flu, with the other three resulting from flu type B.

HPA officials also revealed that 738 people are now in critical care beds

because of flu, including 42 children aged under five.

The government has faced criticism for its response to the outbreak and its

earlier decision not to run an advertising campaign for flu vaccinations.

It has now chosen to launch a campaign designed to remind people how important

good respiratory and hand hygiene can be in preventing the spread of flu.

Lansley, the health secretary, urged the public to help ease the pressure

on hospital staff by taking preventative measures.

'The first line of defence against flu is to be vaccinated - I urge everyone in

an at risk group who hasn't been vaccinated to contact their GP and book an

appointment,' said Mr Lansley.

People should also cover their nose and mouth when they sneeze, dispose of

tissues in bins and wash their hands regularly, he added.

Mr Lansley also insisted that the 'NHS is coping well with the pressures of

seasonal flu'.