The death of a Christchurch man has taken the total number of H1N1 flu-related deaths in New Zealand to five.
Chief Coroner Neil MacLean said today the 49-year-old victim, who was thought to have underlying respiratory problems, died at the weekend.
The man's cause of death had not yet been determined but swine flu was likely to have been a contributing factor, Health Ministry public health deputy director Fran McGrath said.
"While he has tested positive for novel influenza A, he had pre-existing medical conditions."
People with pre-existing conditions were at a higher risk from influenza but there was "growing evidence" that previously healthy people were just as vulnerable, she said.
"For most people who get influenza this winter, it will be a mild to moderate illness and they will recover at home without needing medical treatment."
Dr McGrath said an increasing number of people were presenting with influenza-like illnesses.
However it was "worth noting" that on average 1000 people were hospitalised with seasonal influenza between 2003 and 2006.
The number of confirmed cases of swine flu was 1272, up from 1195 yesterday.
"It's important to note that the actual number of cases of novel influenza A H1N1 will be significantly higher, as only a small proportion of people with symptoms are now being tested," she said.
