Third swine flu death confirmed in Sarasota

The Sarasota County Health Department has received laboratory confirmation of a third H1N1 (swine) flu-related death.

The latest death was a 27-year-old man, officials reported Monday. The two previous deaths in Sarasota were reported in July, both men, ages 22 and 47.

In Manatee County, the first cases of swine flu were reported in May. To date, no swine flu-related deaths have been confirmed in Manatee County.

“While the majority of people who get the flu will fully recover, every death is tragic, and is a sobering reminder that influenza is a serious disease and can be fatal,” said Dr. William Heymann, medical executive director for the Sarasota County Health Department. “Since influenza activity is now widespread in our community, everyone is urged to take these actions daily, especially until there is an H1N1 (swine) flu vaccine available.”

n Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, or use the inside of your elbow.

n Wash hands for 20 seconds using soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.

n Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.

n Avoid close contact with people who are coughing or otherwise appear ill.

For more information visit:

n Centers for Disease Control (CDC): www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/ n Florida Department of Health: www.myflusafety.com/ n Manatee School Board: www.manatee.k12.fl.us/ n Manatee County Health Department: www.doh.state.fl.us/chdManatee/index.htm n Sarasota County School District: www.sarasota countyschools.net n Sarasota County Health Department: www. sarasotahealth.org.

The free H1N1 information line is (877) FLA-FLU1 (352-3581).