Statement from Philip Watt , CEO Cystic Fibrosis Association of Ireland.
Firstly we would like to extend our deepest sorrow to Darina's family and would appeal for privacy as they come to terms with their loss.
We would like to voice the concern of the CFAI about the death, and our understanding from current advice that all those with lung disease, including those with CF can be at greater risk from Swine Flu than other people without lung disease. At the same time we would also like it to be noted that people with CF, including Irish people with CF, have contracted Swine Flu and have fully recovered from the virus.
We would like to strongly emphasise the obvious need for people with CF to be able to obtain the H1N1 vaccine at the same time as front line health workers.
We would advise that people living with CF, their family and friends, should neither be alarmist or complacent about the issue. What is needed now is more specific guidance from the HSE to people with CF to complement the general advice that is already available.
The CFAI recently met with the HSE on these issues and at this meeting we were given assurances that these guidelines will be published in the near future and this is to be welcomed.
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