WAOW - Newsline 9, Wausau News, Weather, SportsHealth officials confirm first H1N1 related flu death in Eau Claire County

Health officials confirm first H1N1 related flu death in Eau Claire County

EAU CLAIRE (PRESS RELEASE) - The Eau Claire City-County Health Department reported the first H1N1 flu related death in an Eau Claire County resident today.  A middle-aged adult with underlying chronic health conditions died Friday, October 23, 2009.

"The loss of a loved one for anyone is heartbreaking.  Our thoughts are with the family and friends during this difficult time," said Richard Thoune, Director/Health Officer, Eau Claire City-County Health Department.

Out of respect for the family and patient confidentiality laws, Eau Claire City-County Health Department is not releasing the individual's gender, age, race or location of residence. 

 "For most people, the H1N1 flu is not severe; however, we know that the virus can be especially dangerous for young children, individuals with compromised immune systems and those with chronic health conditions.  We expect H1N1 vaccine to be available in the coming weeks and we recommend that people get vaccinated to protect themselves against H1N1 novel influenza, especially those individuals who are at high risk for severe disease from H1N1 influenza," said Thoune.

H1N1 vaccine is strongly recommended for:

• Pregnant women.
• People who live with or care for children younger than 6 months of age.
• Health care and emergency medical services personnel.
• People between the ages of 6 months and 24 years old.
• People 25 through 64 years of age who are at higher risk for 2009 H1N1 because of chronic health disorders or compromised immune systems.

Health officials expect that eventually there will be enough H1N1 vaccine - and seasonal vaccine - available for anyone who wants to be vaccinated.

While vaccination will be the best protection against influenza, until more people are vaccinated it will be important for everyone to continue the basic health protection and prevention measures: Stay home if you are ill; cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or with your sleeve, not with your hands; wash your hands thoroughly and frequently; and stay healthy by getting plenty of rest, eating healthy food and exercising.

People who develop significant flu symptoms or those with flu symptoms who are at risk for severe flu or flu complications are advised to consult their health care provider promptly.

For more information about H1N1 influenza, please visit www.pandemic.wisconsin.gov or www.BeReadyEC.com.  Call 2-1-1, the Eau Claire City-County Health Department at 839-4718, or your health care provider.