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2 lives claimed by H1N1 in February: CDCThe China Post news staff TAIPEI, Taiwan -- The H1N1 flu strain claimed two lives this month, as the number of diagnosed influenza cases surged due to increased travel over Chinese New Year, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC, 疾病管制局) said yesterday.
February 27, 2013, 12:08 am TWN During the recent flu season, 365 cases of influenza were reported, resulting in 29 deaths, according to the CDC, which has attributed 26 of the deaths to the H3N2 virus strain and three deaths to H1N1. The first victim to be claimed by H1N1 earlier this month, a 48-year-old man, had reported flu-like symptoms of fever, soreness and pain on Jan. 19, but did not seek medical attention until Jan. 24. The man died on Feb. 5 despite the efforts of doctors. The second victim, a 38-year-old woman, became feverish and felt discomfort on Feb. 14, but did not receive medical attention until Feb. 18 when she was rushed to the ER. She was resuscitated but died on Feb. 21. According to the CDC, the victims were not vaccinated against influenza, and delayed seeking medical attention from the onset of symptoms, which resulted in their deaths. Medical records released by hospitals and clinics indicate that the rate of diagnosed cases of influenza has returned to the pre-holidays norm. However, the count of severely afflicted patients is at this flu season's all time high, with 35 patients currently hospitalized for care. The CDC urged the public to be aware of their health condition and to seek medical attention as soon as possible at the onset of symptoms, including fever, coughing, and muscle and joint soreness and pain. Many cases of influenza-related deaths can be avoided if patients are treated before their conditions deteriorate, said the CDC.
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