Death Reported of Va. Woman Who Had Swine Flu and Other Illnesses

RICHMOND, June 2 -- A woman from Chesapeake who had swine flu, among other illnesses, died Tuesday, state officials said.

It is the first publicly announced death in Virginia associated with swine flu, also called the H1N1 virus.

"The news today that the commonwealth has witnessed its first death associated with the H1N1 influenza virus is a sad and sharp reminder that Virginians must remain vigilant against the spread of this potentially fatal illness," Gov. Timothy M. Kaine (D) said.

The cause of death has not been confirmed, but officials say swine flu appears to have been a factor.

"The impact of this death is not lessened by the fact that the patient had preexisting medical conditions that increased the risk of complications from influenza," said Karen Remley, state health commissioner.

The woman lived at the Southeastern Virginia Training Center, a Chesapeake facility for people with mental retardation and related developmental disabilities.

The most recent statistics available indicate that, as of Friday, the state had confirmed 29 cases of swine flu. Six of them were in Northern Virginia counties: three in Fairfax, two in Arlington and one in Loudoun. At least two other cases involved residents from other parts of the state who had traveled to Mexico.

State officials would not release ages or other personal details about the patients in an effort to protect their privacy.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has reported 17 deaths in the nation caused by swine flu. Health officials in Maryland and the District said Tuesday night that no swine flu deaths have been reported in those jurisdictions. A total of 115 deaths have been confirmed worldwide.

"It is important that all Virginians take the necessary steps to protect ourselves and our loved ones against spreading germs during the normal course of the flu season," Kaine said. "Individuals with symptoms should be particularly cautious and take proactive measures to prevent infection and spread of the disease."

The state has more than 1 million courses of antiviral drugs available.

Staff writer Martin Weil contributed to this report.