Washington Co. confirms first swine flu death

HAGERSTOWN -- Public health officials have confirmed the first swine flu death in neighboring Washington County.

Rod MacRae, public information officer with the Washington County Health Department, said he was notified by e-mail Monday that a person had died from the H1N1 flu virus at the Washington County Hospital.

The health department was closed Monday for the Columbus Day holiday and MacRae said he did not know the particulars, including the person's identity and age.

Barbara Brookmyer, Frederick County Health Services Division director said she had not been notified of the death Monday night.

The next step for the Washington County Health Department is gathering information to see if any action should be taken, MacRae said.

"I just think that it's important for people to remember that even seasonal flu accounts for about 36,000 deaths per year," he said.

The Washington County Health Department is working on distributing vaccines, but face the same national challenges of vaccine delivery and high demand as other areas.

MacRae urged people who have flu-like symptoms and have decided they do not need medical care to stay home until the illness passes.

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