Doctors confirm swine flu killed Crawley girl

A HEALTH trust has confirmed swine flu caused the death of a "beautiful" town schoolgirl.

Nine-year-old Brittany Eastland, from Three Bridges, died on October 18.

A spokeswoman for NHS West Sussex said: "We can confirm results have shown that Brittany Eastland died from pneumonia as a result of H1N1 Influenza.

"Our thoughts are with Brittany's family and friends, especially her mother and brothers."

Grieving mother Sharon Boor: "My beautiful Brittany-Rose was such a happy, kind and caring little girl who thought nothing of putting others before herself.

"She was greatly loved by everyone who knew her and she will be so missed, especially by myself, her two younger brothers and all her school friends.

"She was the shining light in our life and now that light has gone."

"Brittany didn't have any underlying conditions and wasn't in an at risk group for swine flu, so people can't be complacent.

"Don't think being fit and healthy will protect you, my daughter was fit and healthy too.

"Everyone should accept the swine flu vaccine if you are offered it; it doesn't just protect you, it protects your loved ones around you.

"The vaccine may give you a sore arm or other minor side effects but it is nothing compared to the alternative and what I am going through now."

Claire Tiley, headteacher of Brittany's school, said: "She was a gentle-natured, lovely girl, a model pupil at Three Bridges Junior School.

"She was trusted and respected by her peers and was caring and considerate to the children in her class and those she worked with.

"She had a great relationship with all the adults at school and we will all miss her smile and friendly face.

"She will be sadly missed by the whole school community."

NHS West Sussex said the case should serve as a reminder of the dangers of swine flu.

The trusts spokeswoman added: "Brittany's death is clear evidence of how serious swine flu can be and why we should not be complacent.

"Although the majority of people in Sussex have only experienced mild symptoms from swine flu, it can have a much more serious and tragic effect and claim lives.

"We would urge everyone to make sure they know what the symptoms of swine flu are and what to do if we, or a member of our family, become unwell.

"The main symptoms of swine flu are fever, tiredness, lack of appetite, coughing, sore throat, pain in muscles and joints, headache and chills and in some cases vomiting and diarrhoea."

Anyone suffering from these symptoms should stay at home and call 0800 1513100 or visit www.direct.gov.uk/pandemicflu.

People with serious underlying illnesses, pregnant woman, children under one or people whose condition suddenly gets much worse should see a doctor immediately.