BAGHDAD -- An Iraqi Health Ministry official says seven people have died of swine flu in Iraq since the first case of the virus was reported in May, RFE/RL's Radio Free Iraq (RFI) reports.
Health Ministry spokesman Sabah Abdullah told RFI that 475 swine flu cases have been reported throughout Iraq, and that there have been seven fatalities: five in Baghdad, one in Basra, and one in the holy city of Al-Najaf.
He added that Iraq ordered 4 million swine flu vaccination units, and the first shipment of 350,000 doses of antiflu medicine is expected within a few days.
Abdullah noted that the number of swine flu cases diagnosed in Iraq is relatively low compared to its regional neighbors, and stressed that the situation in the country is under control.
The Iraqi government, he said, has allocated $160 million to buy vaccines.
As part of its antiflu efforts, a number of schools were closed last month in Baghdad and the two southern provinces of Dhi Qar and Wasit.
Health Ministry spokesman Sabah Abdullah told RFI that 475 swine flu cases have been reported throughout Iraq, and that there have been seven fatalities: five in Baghdad, one in Basra, and one in the holy city of Al-Najaf.
He added that Iraq ordered 4 million swine flu vaccination units, and the first shipment of 350,000 doses of antiflu medicine is expected within a few days.
Abdullah noted that the number of swine flu cases diagnosed in Iraq is relatively low compared to its regional neighbors, and stressed that the situation in the country is under control.
The Iraqi government, he said, has allocated $160 million to buy vaccines.
As part of its antiflu efforts, a number of schools were closed last month in Baghdad and the two southern provinces of Dhi Qar and Wasit.
