Lee County Child Dies of H1N1 (Swine Flu)

Lee County Child Dies of H1N1 (Swine Flu)
-Fifth H1N1 death in the county-

The Lee County Health Department has received notification of its fifth H1N1 (Swine) Flu-related death in an 11 year old female resident with pre-existing conditions.

“We offer our sincere condolences to this child’s family and friends for their loss” said Judith A. Hartner, M.D., M.P.H., M.P.A., Director of the Lee County Health Department.

“While most cases of H1N1 Swine Flu are mild, there are exceptions. This is why the Lee County Health Department urges our community to get vaccinations against H1N1, a virus to which we have no immunity” said Hartner.

H1N1 can lead to severe sickness, and even death in some cases.  Even young, healthy people can suffer serious consequences when infected. As of October 31, 149 deaths have been reported in Florida.

To combat the spread of H1N1, the Lee County Health Department has been offering vaccine to CDC priority groups in an effort to keep families healthy.  These vaccinations are being held at area high schools through November 21st.  To get clinic information, log onto the Lee County Health Department website at www.LeeCHD.com.  Always remember before departing for any clinic site, to verify the date and time as the schedule is subject to change based on availability of vaccine.

EVERYONE should eventually be vaccinated, but those in high risk categories will be given the first supplies of the vaccine.  They include:
Children and young adults age 6 months through 24 years
Pregnant women
People who live with or care for children younger than 6 months old
Health care workers and emergency medical services personnel
People age 25 through 64 years who have health conditions associated with higher risk of medical complications from influenza

For more information on influenza activity there are a number of resources available such as the Florida Department of Health toll-free number which provides public health information and updates on H1N1 Swine flu.  The information line is available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EDT, seven days a week.  Information is available in English, Spanish and Creole.  The Florida Flu Information Line is 1-877-352-3581.