Swine Flu Epidemic Peaks
Seasonal flu vaccinations have begun in Jyväskylä.
Image: YLE
The swine flu epidemic has reached its peak in almost all of Finland. In northern parts of the country, it is in decline. Nationwide, some 7200 cases have been confirmed. Sixteen deaths have been attributed to the virus.
Of the fatalities, only one did not have an underlying medical condition that led to complications.
In addition to the confirmed cases, it is assumed that the number of unconfirmed cases of swine flu is many times higher. Most cases have been mild and symptoms have differed little from those of seasonal flu.
Vaccinations against swine flu have caused more allergic reactions than vaccines against seasonal flu usually do. Less than 10% of people receiving the vaccination have had some reaction. In most cases where there has been a reaction, it has consisted of soreness at the injection site, in muscles and joints, headaches and fever, all of which disappear within a matter of a few days.
Finland has taken delivery of nearly 1.4 million doses of the swine flu vaccine. A further 300,000 doses are expected next week.
YLE