A 31-year-old woman who contracted swine flu during her pregnancy has died days after giving birth.

The woman was given a caesarean section after being admitted to Salford Royal Hospital with flu-like symptoms.

But her condition worsened and she died in the early hours of Saturday. NHS officials are awaiting a report from the coroner on the cause of her death.

Health bosses said pregnant women with swine flu usually only develop mild symptoms and should carry on as normal.

Dr Julie Higgins, NHS Salford Director of Public Health, said: "Our thoughts go out to the family and friends of the lady.

"The NHS will do all we can to support them through this difficult time.

"The swine flu vaccine is being rolled out to GP practices and I would encourage anyone offered the jab to get it.

"Our advice to pregnant women is to keep up with their normal day-to-day activities, such as going to work, travelling on public transport, attending events and family gatherings; but to observe good hand hygiene.

"Avoid contact with anyone who is suspected of having Swine Flu, and contact your GP as soon as you have flu-like symptoms."

 © British Broadcasting Corporation