Seven flu deaths now confirmed at Dundee nursing home

THE DEATH toll from an outbreak of flu at a Dundee nursing home has risen to seven, NHS Tayside has revealed.

The health board reported that 28 residents in Orchar Nursing Home in the city are known to have been infected with the influenza A virus, including the seven who have died.

None of the infected residents are in hospital and all are being cared for at the home, with “intensive support” from GPs and primary care, the health board said.

NHS Tayside’s health protection team are investigating the outbreak.

A health board spokeswoman said: “All appropriate infection control measures have been put in place in the care home and there is no increased risk to the wider public.

“Where appropriate, residents have been offered antivirals which can reduce the severity and infectiousness of influenza in those affected.

“Relatives who are visiting sick residents are being asked to take extra infection control precautions whilst at the care home.

“Influenza A infection usually causes relatively mild symptoms but it can be a very serious illness among the elderly or those with chronic health problems.

“Therefore, people should be aware of the simple measures they can take to reduce the risk of infection. These include always covering your nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing, disposing of tissues quickly and frequently washing hands with soap and water.”

Anyone with flu-like symptoms can call NHS 24 on 08454 242 424 for advice or their GP if their symptoms are particularly severe.

The first five people to die were a man aged 74 and four women aged 81, 88, 90 and 91 on Sunday 25 and Monday 26 March.

It is understood the sixth person died overnight between 1 and 2 April. The age and gender of the sixth and seventh people to die have not been released.