Second H1N1-related death confirmed in Fayette County

Fayette County’s second H1N1-related death has been confirmed in a woman in her 60s who had significant underlying health conditions.

“We are saddened by the news of this death and hope that people in the community will continue taking the steps necessary to help fight the flu this fall and winter,” said Dr. Melinda Rowe, commissioner of health for the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department. “Getting a vaccine is the number one way to prevent the flu, and the H1N1 vaccine is a safe, easy way to keep you and your family healthy.”

This marks the second H1N1-related death in Fayette County. Last month, state health officials confirmed a death involving a woman in her 50s who had significant underlying health conditions. The state now has five confirmed H1N1-associated deaths.

Although a limited amount of 2009 H1N1 (swine flu) vaccine is currently available, the state health department today posted the first H1N1 vaccine clinic locations open to the public in Kentucky, scheduled by the Lake Cumberland District Health Department. Only nasal spray vaccine will be available at the first clinics, and individuals should check to make sure they are included in the target populations. New clinic dates and times will be posted as they are scheduled around the state. Contact the Kentucky Department for Public Health's influenza hotline at 1(877)843-7727 for more information about H1N1 or seasonal influenza.