A 72-year-old man in the northwestern mountainous province of Dien Bien was reported dead on September 27. He had succumbed to A/H1N1 influenza, becoming the flu’s second fatality in the province this year.

The patient, who was hospitalised on September 23 with flu-like symptoms such as a cough, breathing difficulties and a dull pain, was feverish at home for four to five days, said Doctor Quang Van Pinh.

After several days of treatment, the patient suffered from a respiratory breakdown and passed away, the doctor said.

A blood sample tested positive for influenza A/H1N1.

The first local fatality caused by the virus was reported on September 25.-VNA