County sees second H1N1 fatality

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ROCKFORD — Winnebago County recorded its second death tied to the H1N1 flu virus Friday, on the same day all three Rockford hospitals said they will limit patient visits to people older than 12 to help control the spread of the virus.

Health Department Administrator Mike Bacon said the victim was an adult who died from complications related to the infection.

The county’s first death attributed to the H1N1 virus was an adult with a chronic medical condition who fell ill during the first week of September and died Sept. 18.

“With increasing influenza activity, there is the increasing prospect for more serious health consequences,” Bacon said. “The members of the public health community would like to extend our sympathies to the family for their loss.

“Influenza-like illness is well above the normal seasonal levels for this time of year. We want to remind everyone, especially those with chronic medical conditions, to take everyday preventive actions to avoid getting the flu. Those at risk for flu complications should consult their health care provider right away upon developing influenza-like illness — fever greater than 100 degrees Fahrenheit and a cough or sore throat.”

Bacon also said the second local death emphasizes the importance of knowing what to do about the flu.

Symptoms of H1N1 flu include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting as well.

For children, signs of a need for urgent medical attention include fast breathing or trouble breathing, bluish or gray skin color (call 911 immediately), not drinking enough fluids, severe or persistent vomiting, not waking up or not interacting, being so irritable that the child does not want to be held, flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and a worse cough, and fever with a rash.

For adults, warning signs include difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen, sudden dizziness, confusion, severe or persistent vomiting, and flulike symptoms that improve but then return with fever and worse cough.

Since April, the Winnebago County Health Department has reported 81 total cases and 23 hospitalizations associated with H1N1 flu. In Illinois, there have been 542 hospitalizations and 22 deaths related to H1N1 influenza.

“This is a difficult reminder to all of us that influenza can be a serious infection,” Bacon said, “especially to anyone with underlying medical conditions. We all can take actions to prevent contracting and spreading influenza.”

The actions include getting a seasonal flu vaccination, getting an H1N1 vaccination when available and washing hands frequently, covering coughs and sneezes and containing germs by staying home when sick.

Staff writer Mike DeDoncker can be reached at mdedoncker@rrstar.com or 815-987-1382.

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