Three new flu-related deaths reported
A pediatric patient was among three new flu-related deaths reported by the Southern Nevada Health District Monday.
Officials would not release the names, exact ages or genders of those who died, per Nevada law, but the health district said one child, three young adults, three middle-aged individuals, and five elderly people have died since the beginning of flu season.
“We’re still seeing a significant amount of cases being H1N1,” said Dr. Joseph Iser, chief health officer for the health district. “The same strain as a few years ago.”
He said three flu-related deaths were reported by the same time last year.
Children younger than 5, adults 65 and older, and pregnant women have a high risk of complications from the flu. Children younger than 2 have the highest risk.
The health district recommended everyone older than 6 months get a flu shot. The vaccinations include the H1N1 strain this year, and they are available at the health district and most major pharmacies for about $25. The price is lower for children thanks to government subsidies.
People with serious allergies should consult a doctor first, Iser said.
The health district also recommends frequently washing your hands with soap and water, and coughing or sneezing into the crook of your elbow, rather than contaminating your hands.
“By doing those things, you help me help you,” Iser said.
Given the mild desert weather, Iser expects flu season to last through the spring. But it may be longer, he warns.
The first year the H1N1 strain hit the valley, flu season lasted through the summer because no one had developed immunities to it.
For information about the health district’s flu clinics, call (702) 759-0850 or go to www.SNHD.info.
Contact reporter Wesley Juhl at wjuhl@reviewjournal.com or (702) 383-0381. Follow him on Twitter @WesJuhl.
