Two more Scots swine flu deaths

People in priority groups were urged to take up vaccination offer

Two more people have died after contracting swine flu in Scotland, taking the total number of deaths related to the virus to 25.

Two adults, one from NHS Lanarkshire and one from NHS Fife, both had "underlying health conditions".

Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon said a recent increase in deaths related to the H1N1 virus underlined the need to maintain vigilance.

She urged anyone invited to have a vaccination to accept the offer.

She said: ""Our thoughts are with both families at this very sad time.

"The recent increase in H1N1-related deaths are a stark reminder of the importance of being vigilant during the pandemic. It's vital you get the help you need if you believe you are at greater risk of suffering complications from influenza."

She insisted the vast majority of patients would experience only mild symptoms and make a full recovery.

But she added: "Vaccination is our best defence against this virus and I urge everyone who is in a priority group to accept the vaccine when invited to do so by their GP."