Snohomish Health District announces H1N1 deaths

SNOHOMISH COUNTY — A Marysville man was among five Snohomish County residents who have died in the past few weeks of complications from the H1N1 virus, the Snohomish Health District reported Dec. 2.

Four of the five individuals who died had underlying medical conditions, according to a statement issued by the district.

Residents who have died also include an infant male from Tulalip, a Snohomish man in his 50s, a Bothell woman in her 60s and an Everett woman in her 20s.

The Marysville man was also in his 50s.

The district reported that 92 Snohomish County residents have been hospitalized with the flu between Sept. 29 and Dec. 1.

“Every death from influenza is a loss to families and community, and reminds us that this H1N1 virus can have very serious consequences,” said Dr. Gary Goldbaum, health officer and director of Snohomish Health District. “Before we get further into the holiday season, now is the time for people to step up preventative measures such as covering coughs and washing hands, and for people in high-risk groups to get vaccinated.”

The Washington State Department of Health announced Dec. 3 that more than 1 million doses of H1N1 vaccine have been shipped to Washington state since October.

“Vaccination is the best protection against flu,” Secretary of Health Mary Selecky said in a statement. “Check with your health care provider to find out if they have the vaccine for you and your family. As supply catches up with demand, the challenge will be to make sure everyone gets vaccinated.”

For more information about the H1N1 virus and getting vaccinated, visit www.snocoflu.com.

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