FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                Connecticut Department of Public Health

June 23, 2009                                             Contact: William Gerrish

                                                                    (860) 509-7270

Hartford – The Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) today announced the state’s fifth death linked to infection with the novel H1N1 virus.  The person, a Hartford County resident, was in the 50 – 59 year old age group and had underlying medical conditions.  The person died recently after hospitalization.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of this person who tragically died from illness associated with H1N1 influenza infection,’’ stated DPH Commissioner Dr. J. Robert Galvin. 

Dr. Galvin said that the majority of cases of H1N1 have been mild, but emphasized that influenza can be very serious.

 “We continue to monitor novel H1N1 influenza and ask Connecticut residents to take simple, everyday precautions: cover your cough every time, wash your hands often and well, check yourself for flu symptoms, and stay home and away from others if you are sick,” he said.  “These precautions, while simple, can help prevent the spread of the virus and save lives.”

DPH officials said certain groups of people are at higher risk of complications from the flu.  These groups include children under the age of 2, adults over the age of 65, pregnant women, and people with chronic conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, and heart disease.  These people should call their health care provider immediately to discuss appropriate treatment if they develop a fever with a cough, sore throat, or runny nose. 

The Department of Public Health reported 824 Connecticut residents have had laboratory-confirmed novel H1N1 influenza, of whom 36 have been hospitalized.  Most of these hospitalized persons have recovered and been discharged.

For a list of towns with confirmed cases, please visit www.ct.gov/ctfluwatch.  Laboratory-confirmed cases represent only a fraction of the likely number of cases in the state because many persons with mild symptoms do not seek care from a doctor or hospital but recover at home. 

For more information on novel H1N1 flu, visit www.ct.gov/ctfluwatch/swineflu.   

The Connecticut Department of Public Health is the state’s leader in public health policy and advocacy with a mission to protect and promote the health and safety of the people of our state.  To contact the department, please visit its website at www.ct.gov/dph or call (860) 509-7270.

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