Third Death Linked to H1N1 Influenza in SuffolkCounty

Health Commissioner Reminds Residents to Adhere to Precautionary Guidelines

Hauppauge, NY – Suffolk County Health Services Commissioner Dr. Humayun Chaudhry announced the death of an adult resident confirmed to have the novel H1N1 Influenza A virus, making this the third death associated with the H1N1 virus in Suffolk County.

A man from the Town of Babylon between the ages of 65 and 75 with a serious underlying medical condition had been hospitalized since early June for multiple medical problems. He died on June 29.  

The New York State Department of Health had confirmed that the man had the novel H1N1 Influenza A virus following a test done earlier this month. 

"Our hearts go out to the family and friends of the deceased,” said Dr. Chaudhry.

Dr. Chaudhry reminded residents that all varieties of Influenza are serious. “Though most people who get the flu will suffer mild to moderate symptoms before recovering, for some, especially those who have other medical conditions or who are pregnant, Influenza can be fatal.”

Dr. Chaudhry advised individuals to protect themselves and prevent the spread of illness by doing the following:

§         Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.

§         If you have to sneeze or cough, do it on your sleeve or cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you have to cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.

§         Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth, to avoid the spread of germs.

§         Try to avoid close contact with people who may be ill.

§         If you get sick, stay home from work or school until 24 hours after symptoms subside and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.

To date, SuffolkCounty has 117 confirmed cases of the novel H1N1 Influenza A virus, including this individual.   Most of those confirmed to have the virus have recovered or are recovering.