Swine flu deaths in Scotland rise to 40

The vaccine for the virus is being targeted at priority groups

The number of deaths linked to swine flu in Scotland has risen to 40.

The Scottish government announced that an adult from the Greater Glasgow and Clyde area, with underlying health problems, died after contracting H1N1.

Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon stressed that swine flu remained a mild illness for most people and the vaccine programme was progressing.

Children aged six months to five years will be the next group to be offered the jab.

Ms Sturgeon said: "People with underlying health conditions are at greater risk of complications which is why we are prioritising the vaccine for this group.

"We are vaccinating as soon as vaccines arrive in the country and those people who accept the invitation will be vaccinated by Christmas."