Boston – A 65-year-old Boston man is the first death linked to 2009 H1N1 influenza (swine flu) in Boston this fall, the Boston Public Health Commission said today.
«It is with great sadness that we have learned of the death of a Boston resident from illness associated with H1N1. We extend our deepest sympathy to his family and friends,» said Barbara Ferrer, executive director of the Boston Public Health Commission. «While most cases of H1N1 in Boston and nationwide have been less severe, this news demonstrates how serious influenza can be,» she said.
The patient, who had multiple underlying health conditions, was hospitalized Oct. 14. He tested positive for Influenza Type A and died Oct. 31. Boston health officials were notified Nov. 9 that state laboratory test results came back positive for H1N1.
The patient’s death is the fifth attributed to H1N1 influenza in Boston and the 14th in Massachusetts since the pandemic began in the spring.
Based on national data, Boston health officials said certain groups of people are at higher risk of getting the 2009 H1N1 flu. These groups include infants, children, and young adults up to the age of 24, pregnant women, healthcare and emergency medical services workers, and people 64 and under with chronic underlying health conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, and heart disease. These people should call their doctor if they have any concerns.
Boston health officials also recommend that everyone take the following steps to reduce their risk of illness:
* Get vaccinated against seasonal flu and H1N1 flu when vaccine becomes available.
* Cover your mouth when you cough, either with your upper sleeve or a tissue.
* Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or
sneeze. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are also effective.
* Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
* If you are sick with a fever and cough or sore throat, stay home for 24 hours after you have stopped taking fever-reducing medication or for four days – whichever is longer.
To stay informed of the latest developments on H1N1 flu, visit bphc.org/flu.
