WEST PALM BEACH, FL--The Palm Beach County Health Department has announced the eighth swine flu-related death today in the county as a 3-year-old girl.
The unidentified child was said to have an underlying illness. To date the county has seen 78 people hospitalized with the H1N1 virus with 32 of those people admitted to ICU.
Health Department Director, Alina Alonso, M.D. said, “We are deeply saddened to report the death of such a young person. Our sympathies go out to the family of this child. I am also asking all to remain alert to the signs and symptoms of this flu and seek medical attention if the fever, coughs and sneezes worsen.”
The Health Department also says experience with this virus shows this strain, like all influenza, is unpredictable and because novel H1N1 is a new virus, many people may have little or no immunity against it.
Illness may be more severe and widespread as a result. In addition, it is recommended those at risk should get the H1N1 vaccine to protect against novel H1N1 virus.
The Health Department advises the public to avoid close contact with people who are coughing, avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth and wash hands frequently.
Residents can call 1-888-411-4FLU (4358).
