Child had contracted pneumonia, H1N1

A young Yukoner who contracted the H1N1 virus has died, the territory’s chief medical officer said today.

The elementary school-aged girl, whose name and exact age are not being released, already had pneumonia when she caught the H1N1 virus, Dr. Brendan Hanley said.

She was medevaced to Vancouver last Monday after it was confirmed she had the influenza virus. The young girl died Sunday night.

This is the first H1N1-linked fatality in the Yukon, although Hanley noted pneumonia was likely the primary cause of the child’s death.

People with underlying chronic conditions are most at risk, Hanley said, and should take extra care to stay healthy during the flu season.

Of the 95 H1N1-related deaths reported on the Health Canada website, 80 per cent had underlying conditions.

People with lung, heart and liver diseases are most at risk, Hanley said, as well as people with compromised immune systems.

“This is a strong reminder that influenza is not something to be taken lightly,” he said.

“Every year in Canada, there are between 3,000 and 5,000 (flu-related) deaths. As a whole, we are seeing smaller numbers of deaths with this virus than from regular influenza; however, we are seeing younger people affected.

“It is more important than ever for Yukoners to take proper precautions to protect themselves and others, including getting vaccinated,” Hanley said.

As of Sunday evening, 8,342 Yukoners had been given the H1N1 vaccine, while 5,952 have received the seasonal flu vaccine. Hanley noted the seasonal flu vaccine is just as important as the H1N1 vaccine.

He said parents of children with underlying conditions should ensure the whole family is vaccinated and speak to their family doctor or local nurse about a health plan should their children come down with flu symptoms.

Vaccination clinics continue to be held around the territory this week.

In Whitehorse, the Canada Games Centre remains the main centre for vaccinations, with satellite clinics being held at various public buildings throughout the week.

Today, vaccinations are available at the Yukon government administration building.

Tomorrow, they will be available at the CAIRS office, located at the former Wharf on Fourth building; Wednesday, the clinic will go to Yukon College.

Shots will be given out at the Elijah Smith Building on Thursday and Friday. Today and Friday, the vaccine will be available at the Kwanlin Dun health centre.

The Department of Health and Social Services decided today to extend the clinic at the Canada Games Centre until next week, every day but Wednesday.

Of the five Yukoners who have been admitted to hospital with H1N1, one has died, one was treated and released and the other three remain in hospital.