Lee County Resident Dies of H1N1 (Swine Flu)
The Lee County Health Department has received notification of an H1N1 (Swine) Flu-related death in a 57 year old female resident. “Our deepest sympathies are extended to family and friends. We have continued to see influenza activity over the summer. Therefore, we urge people to take precautions against flu-illness by following proper hygiene” said Judith A. Hartner, M.D., M.P.H., M.P.A., Director of the Lee County Health Department.
Since April when the first cases of H1N1 virus (swine flu) were identified in Lee County, there have been three deaths confirmed resulting from H1N1. For Lee County, the trend appears to be mirroring the state and national trends where the majority of cases are concentrated in children, but deaths are more common in middle aged adults.
The Lee County Health Department urges people to wash their hands frequently, stay home from work or school if they feel ill, and cover their mouths with a tissue or their sleeve if they are coughing. These common sense precautions will greatly reduce the risk of transmission of all flu virus whether seasonal or H1N1 (swine flu).
While most cases of H1N1 (Swine) Flu are mild, there are exceptions. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has advised people with chronic pre-existing conditions and pregnant women to be especially vigilant to prevent against infection. If someone experiences flu-like symptoms they should contact their health care providers or hospital for instructions about receiving treatment.
People experiencing cough, fever of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher and sore throat, possibly along with diarrhea and vomiting, should contact their physician. If you think you have influenza, please call your health care provider and discuss whether you need to be seen in their office, emergency department or stay home. People with influenza like symptoms should stay home from work or school until their fever has been gone for 24 hours without the use of fever reducing medicine.
For more information on swine flu, visit: www.flu.gov.