Possible Swine Flu Death in Great Falls

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By Greg Ortiz

Story Published: Oct 13, 2009 at 5:22 PM MDT

Story Updated: Oct 14, 2009 at 11:03 AM MDT

Medical officials claim a person who showed symptoms of the swine flu died in Great Falls this weekend.

The name, age, and gender of the person are not being released at this time.

Those at the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services say a sample will undergo testing at the state public health laboratory in Helena to confirm the official cause of death.

News of another swine flu death in the state would not be surprising considering the increasing number of occurrences statewide, and the Department of Health and Human Services wants to remind Montanans to keep the numbers in perspective.

Jon Ebelt, Public Information Officer for the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services, explains, “Whether we’re talking about the first, or the second, or the third, or fourth, you know every year, about 100 Montanans unfortunately do die from influenza.”

State health officials want to emphasize that there is no reason to speculate about a third possible swine flu death until test results are in.

Still, in light of recent events and to help curb the spread of the flu, Benefis is temporarily permitting hospital visitation only to those 18 and older.

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