Statement from State Public Health
Director Dr. Damon T. Arnold
On the death of second person in Illinois from complications related to H1N1 influenza
SPRINGFIELD – A second Illinois resident has died after contracting H1N1 influenza, Dr. Damon, T. Arnold, director of the Illinois Department of Public Health, announced today.
“I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to the family for their loss,” said Dr. Arnold. “Our thoughts are with them during this very difficult time. We are saddened by the deaths but, as has been noted in Illinois and around the country, fatalities due to H1N1 continue to occur, especially when there are underlying medical conditions that increase the risk of severe illness.”
Dr. Arnold said the person who died was a suburban Cook County resident and it was reported this individual had other significant medical conditions that increased vulnerability to the H1N1 virus. Close contacts to this person, including health care providers, have received appropriate medical attention.
As a reminder, Dr. Arnold said everyone should continue to take precautions to avoid getting the flu – clean your hands often, cover your cough and sneeze and contain germs by staying home when you are sick. Those with chronic medical conditions should take special care to protect themselves from influenza, he said.
The Department will not be releasing any other information about the case for confidentially reasons and out of respect for the family.