Death toll from flu rises to 34

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Eilish O'Regan

Four more people have died from the flu bringing the death toll from the virus to 34 this winter.

The majority of deaths are people who were over 65.

Flu is still circulating in Ireland although it fell slightly last week.

The GP consultation rates are highest in children and adults aged less than 65 years old.

Swine flu remains the dominant virus in circulation.

Low levels of influenza A(H3N2) and B continue to circulate.

Flu will continue to circulate in the community for at least the next four weeks.

Preliminary results from Canada and Hong Kong where influenza A(H1N1) pdm09 is the dominant circulating virus indicate good flu vaccine effectiveness.

The number of flu hospitalisations decreased during week six and the highest hospitalisation rates continue to be seen in those aged less than five years old.

To date this season, 1,672 hospitalised confirmed flu cases have been reported, the majority due to influenza A.

A total of 88 confirmed flu cases have been admitted to critical care units so far this season with the majority due to influenza A.

The highest intensive care unit admission rates were in adults aged 45 years and older, and children under five years of age.

Six flu outbreaks were reported during week six bringing the season total to 27.