Swine flu has claimed its 18th victim in Northern Ireland, the health minister has announced.
The infected woman who died had underlying health problems, Michael McGimpsey said.
As well as the 18 deaths in the region, two people from Northern Ireland with the virus have died elsewhere since the pandemic took hold last year.
Despite the latest fatality, incidences of the flu variant continue to fall, with GP consultations dropping by a third over the last week.
"Sadly, we have been notified of a further swine flu-related death in an adult," said Mr McGimpsey.
"I would like to express my sincere sympathy to the family and would ask everyone to respect their privacy and allow them to grieve for their loved one in peace."
The announcement came as the minister appeared before Stormont's health committee warning of severe consequences for frontline services if proposed budget cuts proceed.
Mr McGimpsey said the demand to find a further £113 million in efficiency savings during the next financial year - on top of £700 million cuts already facing his department - would have a serious impact on the NHS.
He said: "Trusts are already struggling to meet the demand for their services within the limited resources they have available. For example, day case admissions have increased by almost 20% over the last five years and there has been a 7% increase in the number of inpatient admissions.
"I am asking the Health Committee for its support in the fight for more funding for health and social care. If these cuts proceed, there will be severe consequences. They will impact on our most vulnerable groups, especially the elderly who require more care and support than anyone else."
