Five swine flu deaths, with more expected

SYDNEY’S swine flu crisis has worsened with the death of a fifth victim and 32 people fighting for their lives in intensive care.

The virus, once thought no more deadly than seasonal influenza, has become “unstoppable’, the World Health Organisation says, but Australians may wait three months for a vaccine.

The number of cases in Australia is expected to hit more than 10,000 today after jumping by 778 in 24 hours. Experts predict the worst is yet to come, with a surge in deaths expected next month. (SMH)