MADERA COUNTY – The Madera County Public Health Department is reporting that laboratory results received today have confirmed that a Madera County woman has died from complications of Influenza A 2009 H1N1 infection.
The 63 year-old female died at Madera Community Hospital on Jan. 18. She had other underlying medical conditions which increased her risk for severe H1N1 illness. Medical records available for review do not indicate that she had received an influenza vaccination this flu season.
“We are saddened to inform our community of this first death from the H1N1 influenza,” states Van Do-Reynoso, Madera County Public Health Director. “Typically the majority of flu cases experience mild to moderate illness and recover within several days. Unfortunately in this case, the individual did not recover and we are all reminded of how serious this illness can be.”
Influenza infection may include some or all of the following signs and symptoms:
• Fever or feeling feverish / chills
• Muscle or body aches
• Cough
• Headaches
• Sore throat
• Fatigue (very tired)
• Vomiting / diarrhea, more common in children than adults
• Runny or stuffy nose
“If you are experiencing flu like symptoms, I urge you to contact your health care provider. You may be provided antivirals which may lessen the severity of your infection,” stated Dr. Thomas Cole, Madera County Health Officer.
It is not too late to receive vaccination to help protect against influenza infection. Vaccination is the best protection against influenza infection. Flu vaccination also helps prevent spread of the flu virus from person to person. The 2013-14 influenza vaccine protects against the flu viruses that are most common during this year’s flu season and does include the 2009 H1N1 strain.
In accordance with federal and state guidelines, it is recommend that everyone six months of age and older be vaccinated regardless of health status. Residents can also reduce the risk of influenza infection and help prevent spread of the flu virus by:
• Covering coughs and sneezes
• Washing hands thoroughly and often
• Staying home when sick
Residents with insurance coverage should contact their health care provider regarding flu vaccination. Vaccination may also be available at physician’s offices, clinics, pharmacies, and at special flu vaccination events promoted in retail stores. Additional information regarding flu vaccination opportunities can be found at www.flu.gov
Flu vaccination is available at the Madera County Department of Public Health located at 14215 Road 28 in Madera on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday afternoons from 1:30 pm to 4:30
pm, by appointment. No appointment is necessary during our walk-in clinic on Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to noon and 1:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. There is a $5 administration fee, however no
one will be refused service if unable to pay.
