The first death in Virginia associated with the new influenza A (H1N1) virus, also called swine flu, was announced Tuesday by State Health Commissioner Karen Remley.

The patient was an adult female from the Chesapeake Health District. Although the cause of death has not been confirmed, the H1N1 virus appears to have been a factor. Prior to today, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 17 deaths in the nation caused by the new virus. There have been 115 deaths in laboratory-confirmed H1N1 cases worldwide.

“We are deeply saddened by this death and offer our condolences to the family,” Remley said. “The impact of this death is not lessened by the fact that the patient had preexisting medical conditions that increased the risk of complications from influenza.”

Unfortunately, Remley added, a death associated with the new virus was not unexpected, given the history of influenza-related deaths. Each year, seasonal flu results in about 36,000 deaths nationwide and approximately 1,000 die in Virginia from influenza and pneumonia.

The Commissioner said that all Virginians need to be vigilant in guarding against the flu and its spread. Symptoms of influenza include fever, cough, sore throat, headache, body aches, chills, or fatigue. People who experience these symptoms are asked to call their health care provider or local health department to discuss the possible need for treatment.

People also are advised to protect their health against influenza and other infectious diseases by:

•           Staying home from work or school when ill and limiting their contact with others to keep from infecting them

•           Calling their health care providers or their health department before seeking care for influenza-like illness so that the necessary infection control measures can be put in place

•           Covering their nose and mouth with a tissue when they cough or sneeze and throwing the tissue in the trash after use

•           Washing their hands often with soap and water, especially after they cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners also are effective.

•           Limiting close contact with sick people

•           Preventing the spread of germs by not touching eyes, nose or mouth