First 'probable' swine flu deaths in New Zealand

New Zealand appears to have had its first swine flu deaths following confirmation today that three people who have died in the past week had the virus.

Chief Coroner Neil MacLean said a 19-year-old man died last Sunday in Hamilton and a 42-year-old man died on Thursday in Christchurch.

It was "strongly probable" that the H1N1 virus (swine flu) was a major factor in the deaths of both men.

Meanwhile, Capital and Coast District Health Board said a young girl with underlying medical conditions died this morning in Wellington Hospital. She had earlier tested positive to swine flu.

Health Minister Tony Ryall said he, along with the ministry, expressed sincere condolences to the each of the families involved.

As of today, the total number of confirmed cases in New Zealand was 945, up from 912 yesterday.

Swine flu deaths in New Zealand