|
|
|
(LEAD) S. Korea's Influenza A death toll hits 33: gov't
SEOUL, Oct. 28 (Yonhap) -- The number of South Koreans who have died from Influenza A (H1N1) has risen to 33 as four new deaths have been attributed to the virus, the government said Wednesday.
The latest tally, all involving senior citizens and people suffering from chronic illnesses, comes as the number of confirmed daily deaths have shot up this week, the Ministry for Health, Welfare and Family Affairs said.
A total of 13 people have died in the last three days from the H1N1 flu strain, heath authorities said. They added that of all deaths that have occurred since mid-August, five were healthy, young people, who in the past were less vulnerable to the H1N1 strain flu.
The remaining 28 deaths occurred among older people or those suffering from chronic diseases that made them more susceptible to the flu, which has killed thousands worldwide.
Related to the deaths of healthy, young people, local medical experts said it is imperative for people of all age groups to seek immediate medical attention if they show symptoms like fever and coughing.
Anti-viral drugs like Tamiflu are most effective within 48 hours after the first symptoms appear.
The latest deaths come as public anxieties mount over the rapid spread of the H1N1 virus.
The government, meanwhile, is scurrying to stem the spread of the disease by seeking to vaccinate 35 percent of the country's 49 million people.
The first round of vaccinations started Tuesday for those highly vulnerable to the illness, including medical staff. Children, people suffering from health conditions and senior citizens are to receive shots over the next few months.
yonngong@yna.co.kr
(END)
|
| |
|
|
Home
