Rhode Island reports first death linked to swine flu

The Rhode Island Department of Health on Wednesday reported the first death in the state that is linked to swine flu.

The Department of Health said the teenage girl from Kent County had underlying medical conditions that increased her risk for serious illness from influenza.

“While most of the cases we are seeing in Rhode Island are mild illness, there are some people that can have more severe symptoms or can die,“ said Dr. David Gifford, director of the health department. “People who have underlying medical conditions such as heart or lung disease, diabetes, immunosuppression or pregnancy are at increased risk for more serious complications from influenza.“

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Meeting Street School said in a news release that the girl was one of its students and that she was one of two students diagnosed with the virus.  The girl died Sunday at Hasbro Children’s Hospital, the statement said.

Health officials said the girl who died was not in school while she was symptomatic.

The health department said there have been 94 confirmed cases of swine flu in Rhode Island and 23 hospitalizations.

Health officials said to prevent the spread of the virus, people should wash their hands frequently, sneeze or cough into their elbows, and stay home if they are sick.