FAMILIES in South Woodford have spoken of their shock following the death of a mum-of-seven from swine flu.

Ruptara Miah, 39, of Radleys Lane in South Woodford, died of the virus shortly after giving birth at Whipps Cross Hospital last week.

The baby, a boy, was born prematurely and is currently fighting for his life in intensive care.

Ms Miah had been paralysed from the waist down after surviving a car crash 15 years ago.

Her daughter Salina, 20, said she had battled against her disability to live a life as a devoted, caring mum, while her brother, Abdul Malik, of Rawtenstall in Lancashire, said: "We are very, very upset as a family. It has really taken me by shock."

Neighbour Dennis Ford, 35, said: "Of course we all heard a lot about swine flu in the news but it always seemed something distant. Knowing that someone on the next street died of it really brings it home."

Another mum from South Woodford, who has just recovered from swine flu along with her eight-year-old daughter, said many parents in Redbridge were ‘terrified’ of the virus.

The 33-year-old, who did not wish to be named, said: "A lot of people are worried but for us it was quite mild. But when people die that's when parents with young babies understandably can be very concerned.

"My daughter and I had it for about one and a half weeks. It was really like a normal cold. At first we both had a bit of a cold, then we got high temperatures and all the other symptoms like headaches and limb aches.

"The doctor gave my daughter Tamiflu but that made her feel sick as well. We're just glad it's all over now."

A NHS spokesman said: "In the vast majority of cases, swine flu is a very mild illness and most people should start to feel better after a just few days without needing to go to their GP or A&E."