Auburn girl's swine-flu death signals who's still vulnerable to virus

The recent swine-flu-related death of an Auburn girl does not suggest a current resurgence of the H1N1 influenza virus, according to Public Health — Seattle & King County.

"What it does illustrate is that the flu continues to circulate in the community," said Public Health spokesman James Apa. "It also illustrates that children and people with underlying health conditions are more vulnerable.

The girl, who had underlying health conditions, died July 18. Public Health did not release further details, other than that she was between the ages of 1 and 12 and her family has requested privacy.

Public Health officials said that because flu viruses tend to become more active as the weather gets colder, they're expecting the number of cases to pick up in the fall.

There's nothing to suggest yet that swine flu is more severe than seasonal flu, though experts are still learning about the H1N1 virus.

A swine-flu vaccine should be available locally later this year. Public Health said it is working with state and local partners to determine the best way to distribute the vaccine to those recommended to receive it.

Meanwhile, health officials are encouraging members of the public to make arrangements for the fall that would allow them or their children to stay home from work or school if they become ill.

The first swine flu-related death in King County, in June, was of a man in his 70s with multiple health problems.

In May, a Snohomish County man was the first in the state with swine flu to die. He, too, had other health problems, and died of viral pneumonia, which can be caused by several viruses.

Statewide, as of last Friday, 113 residents with confirmed swine flu have been hospitalized, and six have died, not including the Auburn girl.

For information: www.kingcounty.gov/health/H1N1.