The next swine flu wave is expected to reach Finland next autumn. Risikko says another wave could bog down healthcare professionals and cause severe illnesses. The first wave of swine flu took the lives of 41 people in Finland before Christmas. Four of the victims were children and six were considered to be in good health.

“One reason the disease was not more severe was due to Finland’s campaign to wash hands and cover one’s cough last May. I urge people to get vaccinated, not only for their own protection but for the safety of others as well,” she says.

About 8,000 cases of swine flu have been confirmed by laboratory testing in Finland. The actual number of cases, however, is much higher.

“I have heard that young people often don’t get vaccinated. I am trying to find out why. Even if some people don’t become seriously ill, they should think about others who do have underlying illnesses. Getting vaccinated lets you watch out for those you care about and fulfill a societal responsibility,” she says.