Nguyen Loc Vuong, director of the Kon Tum Center for Disease Control, told VnExpress on November 11 that Thom had displayed symptoms of fever, fatigue and emaciation two weeks ago.

On November 3, Thom was admitted to the intensive care unit of Kon Tum General Hospital. Test results indicated that the patient was positive for the A (H1N1) virus. Thom died six days later.

Vuong noted that 44 people who had physical contact with the patient have been isolated for examination and treatment.

H1N1 influenza, a contagious respiratory disease, can cause death by attacking lung cells and causing respiratory failure if the infected patients do not receive medical treatment quickly. It is especially deadly among pregnant women, the elderly, the obese and those suffering from chronic diseases such as kidney failure or diabetes.

The H1N1 flu can spread from human to human through the air and saliva.

Doctors advised all people at high risk to get vaccinated against the H1N1 virus, limit contact with H1N1-infected patients and ensure hygiene to prevent infection.

It is necessary to see a doctor or visit healthcare centers for medical examinations if patients show symptoms of fever, sneezing, cough and a running nose. SGT

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