The number of San Diego County resident deaths linked to the swine flu pandemic stood at 38 today, according to public health officials.
The latest deaths, reported Wednesday, involved five roughly middle-aged men and women, according to the San Diego County Health and Human Services Agency.
In addition to 38 county residents, seven visitors to San Diego County have died this year as a result of the H1N1 influenza. Non-residents are not included in local H1N1 influenza statistics because their deaths are counted in their hometowns. Three of the non-residents' deaths were also reported Wednesday.
Among the five local deaths and three non-resident deaths reported Wednesday were men of 44, 46, 47 and 67 and women aged 35, 41, 42 and 48. The HHSA said all but one had an underlying medical condition.
A total of 659 people have been hospitalized with the virus locally, according to the HHSA.
County health officials again encouraged people to stay away from work or school if they have influenza-like symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Those with underlying medical conditions experiencing influenza-like symptoms should contact their doctor, according to the HHSA.
