An adult from the NHS Borders area has become the latest Scot to die of swine flu.
The Scottish Government has announced the patient's death, which is the third in two days. The patient, who had underlying health conditions, is the 26th Scot to have died with the H1N1 virus.
Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon said: "It is with regret I have to announce another death. I send my condolences to the patient's loved ones at this sad time.
"As we approach winter the number of H1N1 cases, as expected, will rise, but fortunately in the vast majority of H1N1 cases, most people have fairly mild symptoms and make a full recovery within a week.
"Everyone must realise the importance of maintaining hygiene standards, and in seeking medical advice immediately if you believe you are at greater risk of suffering influenza complications.
"Vaccination is our best defence against this virus and I urge everyone who is in the priority groups to accept the vaccine when invited to do so.
"The vaccination programme is being rolled out, but please wait until you are invited before visiting your GP for the vaccine. If you are concerned about flu-like symptoms contact your GP for advice or call NHS 24 on 08454 24 24 24. Further information on the vaccine programme is available via the new Scottish Swine Flu Vaccination Helpline on 08000 28 28 16."
To protect patient confidentiality, the Scottish Government is now only reporting limited details of the patients, including whether the patient was a child, elderly person or adult, which health board area they came from, and the presence of underlying health conditions or pregnancy.
However, the government insists, the weekly report from Health Protection Scotland will breakdown any fatalities into an age range
and gender.
