Jun 15, 2009 5:59 pm US/Central
1st Minnesotan Infected With H1N1 Flu Dies
ST. PAUL (WCCO) ―
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An H1N1 strain of the swine flu virus, viewed through a microscope. (File)
AP
A 5-year-old girl from Minneapolis who was infected with the H1N1 novel influenza virus died last week, becoming the first person in Minnesota with the strain to die.
The Minnesota Department of Health said the child had underlying medical conditions and was briefly hospitalized.
"Our sympathies go to the family and loved ones of the child who died," state epidemiologist Dr. Ruth Lynfield said.
In Minnesota, 274 cases of the H1N1 novel influenza have been reported. In most people, the illness has been relatively mild.
"For most people, the H1N1 flu is causing mild illness; however, it can still be very serious, especially for people with underlying heath conditions," Lynfield said. "That's why we continue to monitor the situation very closely."
The MDH said the flu is very widespread, and Lynfield said they expect to see many more cases across the state.
To prevent spreading the flu, the MDH recommends the following:
-Wash your hands frequently.
-Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze.
-Limit your contact with those who may be ill.
-Stay home when you are sick.
-Call your healthcare provider if you have flu-like symptoms.
The Centers for Disease Control said 45 people across the United States have died from the H1N1 flu. Nearly 18,000 cases have been reported in the U.S. and nearly 36,000 have been reported worldwide.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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