Naperville man dies with swine flu

The H1N1 flu virus was a contributing factor in the death of a Naperville man, officials revealed today.

A 47-year-old Naperville man who had the H1N1 virus, also known as swine flu, and who also had an acute underlying medical condition, died Oct. 18 shortly after being admitted to Edward Hospital with fever, breathing difficulties and a cough.

The presence of the H1N1 virus was confirmed Tuesday.

Will County Health Department Executive Director John Cicero extended his sympathy and condolences to the victim's family, and noted that pregnant women, children, and people with underlying medical conditions including heart disease, diabetes, immune disorders and asthma are most susceptible to the flu strain.

"This unfortunate death underscores the need for people with underlying medical conditions to consult a physician if they experience flu-like symptoms and problems like difficulty breathing, dehydration, or chest pain," he said.

Statewide, at least 21 fatalities have been identified as involving H1N1, including most recently a 14-year-old Naperville girl and a teenage boy in Sandwich.

Health officials emphasize that most cases of H1N1 flu are moderate, but urge people to get vaccines when they become available. In the meantime, officials remind everyone to practice the three C's to minimize spread of the disease: cover coughs, clean hands by washing, and contain the virus by staying home if sick.