Death toll in Ky. now 13 from swine flu

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — Two recent deaths bring to 13 the number of swine flu fatalities in Kentucky.

The Courier-Journal in Louisville reported a 54-year-old Madison County man who died Oct. 26 had significant underlying health problems. The other recent death was that of a 54-year-old McCreary County woman who died at a hospital near Knoxville, Tenn.

State health officials said there have also been swine flu-related deaths in Jefferson, Fayette, Caldwell, Christian, Hardin, Knox, Pulaski, and Scott counties. Officials said a Caldwell County teen has been the only minor to die from the illness.

Health officials said thousands of Kentucky residents have been ill with swine flu and most had severity resembling that of seasonal influenza.

Supplies of swine flu vaccine are beginning to increase in Kentucky, but officials say the inoculations remain scarce.

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Information from: The Courier-Journal, http://www.courier-journal.com