NYC Swine Flu Scare Continues, Two More Victims and Zero Answers

Just one glance at the statistics reveal the dangerous nature of the Swine Flu, the H1N1 virus, in the large metropolis of New York City. There have been 330 confirmed cases of H1N1 in New York City, with 131 people requiring hospitalization due to the severe flu-like symptoms of the virus. While 1,000 people die from the flu each year in the city, this strain appears to be much more contagious, leading to the closing of 42 public schools since the outbreak began in April.

Today, a 41-year old woman from Queens and a 31-year old man from Brooklyn were announced as the two latest casualties of the Swine Flu, bringing the total to four, according to City Health Commissioner, Thomas Friedan. At a news conference, Friedan stated that "Until the medical examiner's report comes out, we won't know what else was going on" While it is likely that H1N1 had contributed to their deaths, it is unclear whether the newest victims had any previous conditions that increased their susceptibility and vulnerability to the virus.

Only one week ago, Assistant Principal of Intermediate School 238, Mitchell Wiener, became the first person in New York City to die of the virus, and two days ago, a 56-year old woman from Queens became the second casualty as a result of the highly-contagious, deadly flu.

Both of the newest cases had underlying causes that contributed to their condition and neither individual worked in the New York City public school system. However, while over twenty public, private, and parochial school reopened on Tuesday, Public School 811, a 42-student special needs program in Queens becomes the latest school to shutdown due to the threat of H1N1.

In addition, the Ecuadorian consulate has temporarily closed their Manhattan and Queens offices due to employees feeling ill.

Mayor Bloomberg warns anyone with medical issues to seek professional help if they feel ill with flu-like symptoms, and is promoting public awareness of this potentially deadly disease.