THREE people have died in Whiston Hospital from swine flu and another two patients are being treated for the illness.

The Star reported yesterday how a 29-year-old woman had died in the hospital from the illness.

Now it has emerged the outbreak has led to the deaths of another two patients.

It takes the regional death toll from swine flu to five, with the virus also claiming the life of a Liverpool woman and 38-year-old man in Southport Hospital.

Health chiefs have urged people not to panic and asked all those eligible for a flu jab to get vaccinated.

They include people with chronic health conditions, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems.

Two more patients are being treated in Whiston for the illness. However, a spokesperson for the Health Protection Agency denied suggestions of an “outbreak”.

He said: “There are flu deaths every year and this year is no different. The reason the deaths are getting publicity is because they are H1N1 – but this is now just the normal part of seasonal flu, it is no different.

“During the pandemic of last year most people had mild symptoms but we did have some deaths.”

A statement from Knowsley NHS read: “We can confirm that three people have sadly died from complications from confirmed H1N1 infection (at Whiston Hospital). We would like to extend our deepest sympathies to their families.

“The flu virus is generally mild in most people and the vast majority will recover quickly.

“However as with all flu viruses, some people are at higher risk than others.

“More serious illness will generally occur among people who have identified risk factors or a serious underlying medical condition.

“If you are in a risk group, which includes pregnant women, then we would urge you to visit your GP surgery and get a flu vaccination as soon as possible.

“It is not too late to get vaccinated for your protection and that of your family."