Child Dies from Swine Flu in Houston, Texas

On April 29, 2009 a male toddler from Mexico City died from the swine flu in Houston, Texas. The diagnosis of North American flu (swine flu) was confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) early in the morning; however, it was pneumonia (that occurred as a result of the swine flu) that actually killed the toddler. Authorities waited to tell the public until they could notify the child's family. The 22-month-old child had been at the Texas Children's Hospital for more than two weeks.

Dr. David Persse, a health authority from the Houston Department of Health and Human Services, said the toddler was visiting relatives in Brownsville, Texas - which borders Mexico - and was taken to a local hospital in early April. Because he became quite ill rapidly, he was then transferred to Texas Children's Hospital in Houston, Texas.

The child's parents are being monitored closely though they show no signs of the infection. The Texas Children's Hospital provided strict infectious control and it was reported that the deceased was not in contact with any other patients. However, according to Dr. Jeffrey Starke, tests are being done on other children in the Texas Children's Hospital as a precaution. Dr. Starke noted that the 22-month-old child did not contract the infection in the Houston area.

According to the CDC, Swine Influenza (swine flu) is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses that causes regular outbreaks in pigs. Normally swine flu does not affect humans but when it does, it is spread from person to person similar to other contagious viruses.

Dr. Persse does not believe that Houstonians have reason to panic, but should see a doctor if they develop flu symptoms. Flu symptoms include fever, body aches, nausea, and stomach upset. It also goes without saying that if you do suffer from flu-like symptoms, please avoid contact with others. Do not go to school, the mall, work, or to the gym.

"Your single best thing that you can do for you and your family is to wash your hands frequently," Persse said. Other precautions you can take are to clean items you use regularly like cell phones, remote control, keyboards, and door knobs; cough into your sleeve (not your hand), and avoid shaking hands.