Minnesota H1N1 death toll climbs to 15, possibly 16
The Minnesota Department of Health says another three Minnesotans have died from H1N1 or undetermined influenza.
Here's the information in the state's own words:
"During week 43 influenza activity in Minnesota decreased slightly but remains elevated.
One hundred thirty-seven (137) schools reported outbreaks of influenza-like illness during week 43. Two hundred eighty-eight (288) schools reported outbreaks in week 42.
Two (2) outbreaks due to influenza were reported from long-term care facilities (defined as skilled nursing facilities) this week. Influenza-like illness visits to outpatient clinics involved in our Sentinel Provider Network decreased this week.
Since September 1st, 2009, there have been 980 confirmed novel H1N1 influenza hospitalizations and 1,240 total novel H1N1 hospitalizations since the virus was first identified in Minnesota.
Three (3) influenza A H1N1-associated deaths and one (1) influenza-type unspecified death were confirmed in week 43. Fifteen (15) influenza A H1N1-associated deaths and one (1) influenza-type unspecified death have been reported since the virus was first identified in Minnesota.
The most common strain of influenza characterized at the MDH PHL has been 2009 influenza A H1N1."
I have asked the Minnesota Department of Health whether the outbreaks at long-term-care facilities means there is now seasonal influenza in the state (the elderly would be at risk from seasonal influenza, but have been considered not at risk from H1N1 due to exposure earlier in their lives), that those sickened were young individuals in long-term-care or that the elderly might be at greater risk than previously thought.
We can hope, based on slightly decreased numbers, that the first wave of the pandemic is waning in Minnesota. But that remains uncertain. The Winona Daily News reports that one woman from Winona County and another from Filllmore County both died of H1N1.
The one from Winona County was in her 70s and the one from Fillmore County was in her 20s, the newspaper reports. My deep sympathy to the families of these individuals.
By Jeff Hansel, member Association of Health Care Journalists
Health Reporter for the Post-Bulletin newspaper, 18 1st Ave. S.E. in Rochester, Minnesota 55904
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