Press Release

Yolo County Health Officer Announces First Death from Novel H1N1 Influenza

(Woodland, CA) – A 30-year-old Yolo County woman has died at Woodland Memorial Hospital after being hospitalized with the H1N1 flu virus, Yolo County Health Officer Joseph Iser confirmed today. The death occurred today, August 7, 2009. She is the first person in Yolo County to die from Novel H1N1 Influenza.

“Our hearts and sympathies go out to the victim’s family,” said Yolo County Health Officer Joseph Iser. “Her death is a sad reminder of the serious threat posed by the H1N1 flu virus.”

The virus, known as Novel H1N1 Influenza, is a fairly new virus that combines swine, human and bird viruses. A vaccine to protect against Novel H1N1 Influenza is being developed. Actions people can take to help prevent the spread of germs include:

• Cough and sneeze into a tissue or into your elbow. Dispose of the tissue after each use. If you don't have a tissue, cover your mouth by coughing into your elbow or sleeve, not your hand.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water and use hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth, even after washing your hands.
• Avoid close contact with sick people.
• Stay home from work or school if you are sick.

For more information on Novel H1N1 Influenza, visit: www.yolocounty.org.