FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 5, 2003
Possible Influenza Related Death in Kotlik
Anchorage, Alaska - - - Preliminary autopsy report on a young woman who died in Kotlik earlier this week indicate that the death may have been influenza-related. Reportedly, the young woman had been sick with a suspected respiratory viral illness for about a week prior to her death. The State Medical Examiner’s office is working to rule out other potential causes of death, and attempting to confirm that the woman did in fact have influenza.
“Influenza testing on a deceased person is different from testing on a live person. The virus cultures may not be viable and we may not ever know for sure if this individual had the flu or not. Right now we are also testing to exclude other possible causes, but because we know the individual was sick with a respiratory viral illness prior to death, it is possible that influenza is the cause,” said Dr. Franc Fallico, Division of Public Health acting State Medical Examiner.
According to Alaska Vital Records data, Alaska has experienced at least three influenza-related deaths each year for the past 10 years. It is too early to tell if Alaska will experience higher than normal numbers of confirmed flu cases this season.
There are simple precautions everyone can take to help guard against getting the flu. Frequently washing hands, covering nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, and avoiding touching the nose, eyes, and mouth will help people avoid transmitting or getting the flu or other respiratory infections, like a cold.
Additional online information about influenza:
- Alaska Division of Public Health, Section of Epidemiology
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Alaska Division of Public Health
Influenza Fact Sheet
What is influenza?
Influenza is a virus. There are three types of influenza viruses (A, B, and C). Influenza types A and B cause respiratory illnesses.
What are the symptoms and how soon do they occur after exposure to an ill person?
Illness will usually begin very suddenly 1-5 days after exposure and
commonly lasts for 2-7 days.
Symptoms usually include fever, cough, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue.
When does influenza occur?
Influenza occurs in the late fall and winter in the United States.
Who can get influenza?
Anyone. Persons at highest risk for severe illness are the elderly, the very young, and those with chronic medical problems such as heart or lung conditions, diabetes, or trouble with their immune system.
How is influenza spread?
Influenza is spread from an ill person to other people by coughing and sneezing.
Can you get influenza from domestic pets and animals?
Animals such as pigs, horses, and birds can become ill with their own influenza viruses. Pigs have spread their influenza viruses (known as "swine flu") to people.
Is there a treatment for influenza?
Persons with influenza should rest and drink lots of fluids. Treatment is available for influenza A and B. This is not a replacement for the influenza vaccine.
Can you get influenza more than once?
Yes. More than one type of influenza can go around each winter so people can get the flu more than once a year. People will usually get influenza many times in their life.
Is there a vaccine for influenza?
Yes. Different strains of influenza circulate at different times. A new vaccine is issued each flu season. People who need the vaccine should get the vaccinated every year. People who are at risk for getting a serious case of influenza or a complication should get the vaccine. This also includes anyone who has close contact with people who are at risk for getting a serious case of influenza, and anyone who wishes to avoid getting the flu.
How can you prevent the spread of influenza?
Persons who are ill with fever and cough should stay home. They should not go to school or work. They could easily spread the disease to other people. People should cover their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and should frequently wash their hands. A safe and effective vaccine is available, especially for persons at high risk (listed above) or anyone wishing to avoid influenza. Because the virus may change slightly from year to year the vaccine is changed each year and should be received each influenza season.
What if I have additional questions about influenza?
Contact your health care provider or your local public health center. You can also visit the following websites for additional information: www.cdc.gov <http://www.cdc.gov>.
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For more information, please contact
Sherry Hill, Special Assistant to the Commissioner for Communications
(907) 465-1611Or
Ross Soboleff
Public Information Officer III
(907) 465-1611
or
Sherry Hill
Special Assistant to the Commissioner
Department of Health and Social Services
Juneau Office: 907-465-1618
Anchorage: 907-269-7800
Cell: 907-321-2838or
Kerre Fisher,
(907) 269-2042 or 748-7398
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