[Sarasota] Second man's death linked to swine flu:

http://www.heraldtribune.com/article/20090717/BREAKING/907179963/2055/NEWS?Title=Second-man-s-death-linked-to-swine-flu

Sarasota Herald Tribune
By CHRIS O'DONNELL
Second man's death linked to swine flu

By CHRIS O'DONNELL

Published: Friday, July 17, 2009 at 11:29 a.m.
Last Modified: Friday, July 17, 2009 at 11:29 a.m.

SARASOTA COUNTY - Sarasota County health officials today confirmed that a 47-year-old Sarasota man died from swine flu.

The death is the second from the disease in the last few days. Officials confirmed Thursday that the death of an otherwise-healthy 22-year-old local man was also the result of swine flu.

Officials say there have been 11 confirmed cases of the disease in Sarasota.

“These deaths are tragic and a sobering reminder that influenza is serious, and can be fatal. Our staff continues to monitor this disease in our community, and reminds residents to take precautions to avoid the flu,” said William Heymann, medical executive director for the Sarasota County Health Department.

People experiencing cough, fever of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher and sore throat, possibly along with diarrhea and vomiting, should contact their doctor or health-care provider to see if they need to be treated at emergency department or stay home, officials said.

People with respiratory illness should stay home and away from work, day care or summer camps to avoid spreading infections, including influenza.

Health officials advise that you stay home for a week after symptoms begin or 24 hours after you are symptom-free whichever is longer.