Goshen - Orange County Department of Health reminds the public that there is a significant amount of influenza-like illness (ILI) in the northeastern region. The Health Department is saddened to report the first associated death of an Orange County resident, a 32 year old female from Newburgh who died on June 23, 2009. Specimens were sent from the Medical Examiner’s Office and results were received in the past 24 hours.
Commissioner Hudson advises residents to continue to pay close attention to hygiene practices such as hand washing, use of hand sanitizer, cough etiquette and staying home when ill remain important to avoid contracting and spreading influenza viruses. She further advises that people with underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, asthma and pregnancy are at higher risk for complications.
The CDC and NYS Department of Health says seasonal influenza has continued to decrease and that most ILI is now attributable to the novel H1N1 virus, commonly known as “Swine Flu.” Most of the illness seen has been mild and treated as an out-patient.
The Orange County Department of Health continues to monitor and test hospitalized patients with acute respiratory illness and fever. 
