H1N1 influenza update: 3,404 confirmed and probable cases, 17 deaths in Illinois

[July 25, 2009]  SPRINGFIELD -- Illinois Department of Public Health Director Damon T. Arnold is again reminding the public that the H1N1 influenza virus continues to circulate in Illinois and people should continue to take preventive steps to stay healthy and limit the spread of the virus. The Illinois Department of Public Health is reporting 3,404 confirmed and probable cases of H1N1 influenza in Illinois, including 17 deaths.

County breakdown of Illinois H1N1 influenza-related deaths:

• 8 -- Chicago

• 6 -- Suburban Cook County

• 1 -- Kane County

• 1 -- Lake County

• 1 -- LaSalle County

Age	Total cases	Deaths
0-4 years	362	1
5-24 years	1,924	4
25-49 years	606	6
50-64 years	187	5
65-plus years	42	1
Unknown	283	0
Total	3,404	17

For confidentiality reasons and out of respect for the families, the Illinois Department of Public Health is not releasing any additional information about the 17 deaths.

"Although the rate at which we're seeing new H1N1 influenza virus cases in Illinois continues to slow, the department is preparing for the possibility of a more severe outbreak of H1N1 flu in the fall. It is important for people to continue to take preventative measures and practice good hygiene," Dr. Arnold said. "Doing so will help you avoid becoming sick and spreading illness."

To stay healthy, follow the three C's:

• Clean -- Properly wash your hands frequently.

• Cover -- Cover your cough and sneeze.

• Contain -- Contain your germs by staying home if you are sick.

For additional information about H1N1 flu and the upcoming flu season, go to www.flu.gov.

[Text from Illinois Department of Public Health file received from the Illinois Office of Communication and Information]