|
FOR
IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
October 16, 2009
| Contact: |
Sherri McDonald, Director
Public Health and Social Services, (360)
786-5201
or cell (360) 239-1520.
Weekends: (360) 352-8348 or (360) 942-6133
|
Influenza-Related
Death Reported in Thurston County
OLYMPIA
– Thurston County health officials are reporting the influenza-related
death of a man in his late 20s in Thurston County.
Although the resident’s death was related to influenza, it has not
yet been confirmed as the H1N1 virus otherwise known as “swine flu.” H1N1
test results from the state Department of Health will likely be available
early next week. The resident was
recovering from his bout with influenza but developed a fatal complication.
As in any death, the Thurston County Public Health and Social Services
Department is saddened by this development.
The
H1N1 virus is in our community and has been for some time.
The symptoms of all influenza
( H1N1 or seasonal flu) include fever, cough, and sore throat.
In addition, body aches, fatigue, lack of appetite,
nausea, vomiting and diarrhea can occur.
Fever and cough are key. Signs
of more severe illness include difficulty breathing, chest pain and
dehydration. Call your health care provider if you or a family member is sick
enough to need medical care (e.g., has trouble breathing).
It is
very important that each of us take responsibility for reducing the spread of
the H1N1 virus.
- Stay home from work, childcare, school or public gatherings when you are
sick with a fever and cough.
- Persons with influenza should stay home for 24 hours after the
fever is gone without the help of fever reducers.
- Cough into your sleeve
or cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough and sneeze.
Dispose of tissues in a covered container and wash your hands.
- Wash your hands often
using soap, warm water, and paper towels. Use a commercially available
(alcohol-based) hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
- Keep your hands away from your nose, eyes and mouth.
- Stay away from people who are sick.
- Do not share snacks, food, drinks or cigarettes with others.
More information about
H1N1 and the vaccine can be found at the Thurston County Public Health web
site: http://www.co.thurston.wa.us/health/personalhealth/influenza/swineflu.html
or by calling the department’s public information line at 360-709-3080.
|
