Two men with swine flu die at Royal Oldham Hospital

The primary care trust has refused to say when the men died at the Royal Oldham Hospital

Two men have died at the Royal Oldham Hospital after contracting swine flu, it has been confirmed.

NHS Oldham said the patients, who were both from the town, had underlying illnesses.

Alan Higgins, director of public health for Oldham, said swine flu was a factor in the deaths of both men.

He refused to release any other information about the patients, including when they died, saying he had to protect patient confidentiality.

People aged over 65, or with a long term condition, carers, and pregnant women are advised to have the flu jab.

This year's vaccine protects against three strains of flu, including H1N1 (swine flu).

Mr Higgins said: "Those at greater risk of developing serious complications from flu should contact their local GP practice as soon as possible to arrange a flu jab to protect themselves from the virus in the months to come."