ATLANTA, Dec 10, 2009 (UPI via COMTEX) -- In a study involving 12 states,
American Indians/Alaska Natives were at increased risk of death due to H1N1
influenza, U.S. health officials say.
The Centers For Disease Control and Prevention's Morbidity and Mortality Weekly
Report released Thursday says an investigation of influenza-related deaths
occurring in 12 states between April 15-Nov. 13 found American Indians/Alaska
Natives were four times more likely to die from H1N1 influenza when compared to
all other racial and ethnic groups combined.
"The investigation found that 42 deaths, or 9.9 percent, occurred among American
Indians/Alaska Natives, although American Indians/Alaska Natives make up
approximately 3 percent of the population in these 12 states," the report said.
The study authors recommend increasing awareness among American Indians/Alaska
Natives and their healthcare providers about H1N1 influenza; early use of
influenza anti-viral medications for those at increased risk for H1N1 influenza
complications and promotion of H1N1 vaccine in American Indians/Alaska Natives
populations.
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