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Second death in U.S. linked to influenza A (H1N1)

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Officials from the CDC confirmed today that a second death in the United States has been attributed to influenza A (H1N1).

Judy Trunnell, a 33-year-old teacher from Harlingen, Tex., died yesterday. She had been in a coma and had been receiving treatment in a Texas hospital since April 19. Trunnell is the first American citizen whose death is attributed to the influenza A (H1N1) outbreak. The previous death in the United States occurred in a Mexican toddler whose parents came to the United States seeking treatment.

Public health officials said Trunnell, who recently gave birth, may have had other “chronic underlying health conditions” that could have contributed to her death.

Richard Besser, MD,acting director of the CDC, expressed condolences to Trunnell’s family at a CDC press briefing this afternoon. “This reminds us that influenza can be a serious disease – and we need to take it seriously,” Besser said.

The number of confirmed cases of influenza A (H1N1) has now reached 642 in 41 states, according to new data released today by the CDC. In addition to the confirmed cases, there are about 850 additional “probable” cases, according to Besser.

The CDC also updated its guidelines for the closure of schools and childcare facilities in response to the influenza A (H1N1) outbreak. Among other recommendations, the updated guidelines state:

• School closure is not advised for a suspected or confirmed case of novel influenza A (H1N1) and, in general, is not advised unless there is a magnitude of faculty or student absenteeism that interferes with the school’s ability to function.
• Schools that were closed based on previous interim CDC guidance related to this outbreak may reopen.
• Students, faculty or staff with influenza-like illness (fever with a cough or sore throat) should stay home and not attend school or go into the community except to seek medical care for at least seven days even if symptoms resolve sooner.
• Students, faculty and staff who are sick seven days after they become ill should continue to stay home from school until at least 24 hours after symptoms have resolved.

The guidelines were updated on the basis of new information regarding the spread and severity of influenza A (H1N1). “This is an example of how we use science to guide policy,” Besser said. – by Jay Lewis