THE RATE OF swine flu infection doubled again in the first week in January, and two more people died from the illness.

Elevated flu activity is likely to continue for several weeks, the Health Protection Surveillance Unit is warning.

The Unit’s latest figures reveal that flu is now affecting 204.2 people for every 100,000 of the population – up from 109.5 per 100,000 in the last week of 2010.

Swine flu, or H1N1, is now the main flu virus affecting Irish people, accounting for more than four in five cases. Overall flu levels are now at their highest recorded rate since surveillance began in 2000.

Yesterday, 72 people were being treated in intensive care for the virus, while another 393 people are in hospital.

But if you’re one of those suffering, take heart: successfully battling a bout of swine flu could leave you with a supercharged immune system.

Making a difference

A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

For the price of one cup of coffee each week you can make sure we can keep reliable, meaningful news open to everyone regardless of their ability to pay.

Support us Learn More

Making a difference

A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

COMMENTS