H1N1 death reported in Volusia Co.

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (WOFL FOX 35) - The Volusia County Health Department (VCHD) has received notification of an H1N1 flu related death of a 26 year old female. This is the sixth H1N1 flu related death reported to VCHD since this new strain of flu was identified in April.

"We extend our sincere sympathy to the family," said Dr. Bonnie Sorensen, director of the Volusia County Health Department. "Our hearts go out to them during this difficult time."

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While most cases of H1N1 flu are mild, there are exceptions. Pre-existing health conditions often play a role in how individuals react to the flu.

The majority of deaths from H1N1 flu in the United States have occurred in persons with underlying chronic health conditions. Pregnant women, cancer patients, people with asthma, diabetes, suppressed immune systems, heart disease, and kidney disease need to pay particular attention to personal hygiene, avoid close contact to infected persons, and consult with their healthcare provider regarding the influenza vaccine.

It is not too late to get vaccinated for protection against the flu. This is the time of year for the peak of the flu season and it is important to be protected against influenza.

The Volusia County Health Department is providing no cost H1N1 vaccine to children and adults. The health department also has no cost seasonal flu vaccine for children/youth between the ages of 3 years to 18 year old.

The below clinic locations are offering nasal spray and injectable flu vaccine Monday thru Friday between the hours of 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

• 1845 Holsonback Drive in Daytona Beach
• 717 W. Canal Street in New Smyrna Beach
• 909 N. Stone Street in DeLand
• 3151 Howland Boulevard in Deltona

Free H1N1 group vaccinations are available for 20 or more people. Please call 866-821-7704 to schedule a vaccination team to visit organizations, businesses and companies.

Now that H1N1 vaccine supplies have increased, anyone who wants the vaccine can get it.

People should continue to wash their hands frequently, stay home from work or school if they feel ill, and cover their mouths with a tissue or their sleeve if they are coughing. These common sense precautions will greatly reduce the risk of transmission of all flu virus whether seasonal or H1N1 Swine Flu.

For more information about flu, visit www.VolusiaHealth.com or call the Volusia County Health Department’s Flu Information Line at 866-821-7704. Let's fight flu together.