People with respiratory illnesses such as asthma and emphysema are strongly advised to take a few simple steps to reduce their chances of contracting swine flu or becoming very ill if they do contract it, says the Asthma and Respiratory Foundation.

'Controlling asthma through using a preventer medication regularly as prescribed is really important,' says Foundation Medical Director, Dr Bob Hancox.

Dr Hancox adds that people with all types of respiratory illnesses should take extra care to look after their health as well as they can at this time.

Three deaths from swine flu in New Zealand were reported during the weekend- one each in Hamilton, Wellington and Christchurch-and the Foundation was told last week that in Wellington, for example, the majority of people hospitalised for swine flu had asthma. The first recorded death of someone with swine flu in New Zealand was a 19-year-old with asthma who died on 28 June.

Dr Hancox says that the Foundation also recommends an influenza vaccine for people with respiratory illnesses because all types of influenza should be avoided. The vaccine takes about two weeks to take effect, so people should ring or email their doctor's surgery as soon as possible to help protect themselves. Vaccinations are free for people with long term conditions until 30 September, 2009.

If people have influenza-like symptoms and are concerned about their health they should call the national Healthline first on 0800 611 116.

Dr Hancox also says that people should follow the Ministry of Health's (MoH) recommendations regarding preventing the spread of influenza and what to do if they suspect they have influenza (see in Notes to Editors).