A western Wisconsin woman has died from the swine flu.

48-year Debra Lindstrom's family says she went to the Hudson Clinic on October 29th with flu-like symptoms. Her cousin says she was later taken to an emergency room where doctors found fluid around her heart. When her condition got worse, they say she was taken to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester where the mother of three died on Tuesday.

Doctors told the family H1N1 attacked her heart.

PRESS RELEASE FROM ST. CROIX COUNTY:
For Immediate Release
DATE: November 4, 2009

Contact: Geralyn Karl, St. Croix County Public Information Officer
Health Officials Confirm 2009 H1N1 Flu Death in St. Croix County
New Richmond – The St. Croix County DHHS-Pubic Health Department reports the first confirmed H1N1 influenza related death in St. Croix County.

“The loss of a loved one for anyone is heartbreaking. Our thoughts are with the family and friends during this difficult time,” said Wendy Kramer, Public Health Officer.

“For most people, the 2009 H1N1 flu is not severe. However, we know that the virus can be especially dangerous for children, individuals with compromised immune systems and those with chronic health illnesses” said Kramer. “We expect more H1N1 vaccine to be available in the coming weeks. We recommend that those individuals who are at high risk for severe disease from H1N1 influenza get vaccinated to protect themselves against H1N1 when vaccine becomes available.”

Health officials expect that eventually there will be enough H1N1 vaccine – and seasonal vaccine – available for anyone who wants to be vaccinated.

While vaccination will be the best protection against influenza, until more people are vaccinated it is important for everyone to continue the basic protection and prevention measures: stay home if you are ill; cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or with your sleeve, not with your hands; wash your hands thoroughly and frequently; and stay healthy by getting plenty of rest, eating healthy food and exercising.

People who develop significant flu symptoms or those with flu symptoms who are at risk for severe flu or flu complications are advised to consult their health care provider promptly.

For more information about H1N1 influenza, including upcoming vaccination clinics, please visit www.co.saint-croix.wi.us/flu, call the St. Croix County Influenza Phone Bank at 715-246-8224, or contact your health care provider.