Another Kern resident has died of H1N1 Flu, the Health Department reported Tuesday afternoon. That means 17 local people have died of the disease as of Sunday.
About 180 have been hospitalized by H1N1, also known as the swine flu.
The announcement came after the Health Department finished its schedule of free H1N1 Flu clinics.
That means, for now, the vaccine is very hard to find in Kern County. It’s available only through a few private providers, including doctors’ offices, pharmacies and urgent care centers, that ordered their vaccines directly from the state.
More doses are expected soon.
One person has died of the more typical seasonal flu, and 15 have been hospitalized.
The numbers reflect diagnoses made before Sunday.
The latest death was that of a 51-year-old man who had underlying medical conditions. His name was not released.
“We expect that there will be more (H1N1) Swine Flu deaths from individuals of all ages,’’ Health Director Dr. Claudia Jonah said last Tuesday. ‘’Everyone should continue taking steps to prevent spreading and/or becoming ill with the flu.’’
Here is the Health Department’s advice on the flu:
Aside from receiving the vaccine, residents are reminded that the best way to protect your family and yourself is by preventing the spread of germs. Remember to practice the three “C’s” of disease prevention.
• Cover your cough
• Clean your hands
• Confine sick people at home
Like seasonal flu, H1N1 Influenza can be mild to severe. Serious symptoms in children that need urgent medical attention include:
• Fast breathing and/or difficulty breathing.
• Fever that is not reduced with “over the counter” medications.
• Inability to drink adequate fluids.
Serious symptoms in adults needing urgent medical attention include:
• Confusion and dizziness.
• Vomiting leading to dehydration.
• Difficulty breathing and shortness of breath.
People experiencing flu-like symptoms should stay home from work or school, limit contact with others and call their healthcare provider for advice and possible testing. Those who are ill with flu-like symptoms, but do not have healthcare coverage, should call 211.
For more information, please call our Swine Flu Hotline at 1-877-81-VIRUS.
