More than 100 U.S. Kids Dead from Swine Flu

At least 114 children have died in the United States this year from confirmed cases of the H1N1 flu, according to U.S. health officials. Nineteen children died last week -- the largest one-week increase since the swine flu outbreak began in April.

Dr. Thomas Frieden, director of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said during a Friday press conference that these deaths are very likely an underestimation of the actual numbers due to labratories who don't test or causes that are not accurately reported. The H1N1 flu is widespread in 48 states and continues to spread.

Although most people infected with the swine flu exhibit mild to moderate symptoms, the latest statistics reveal that H1N1 continues to afflict young people and is especially serious for those with underlying medical conditions. Of the children who have died, two-thirds had chronic health problems such as asthma, cerebral palsy, and muscular dystrophy. Dr. Frieden stressed the importance of people with underlying health conditions to seek immediate medical care for flu-like symptoms.

H1N1 vaccines have been in short supply due to production delays and high demands. Thousands of people have been turned away from clinics and pharmacies offering flu vaccinations who limit their supply to those most at risk -- children, pregnant women, senior citizens, health-care providers, and people with chronic health conditions. Frieden stated that vaccine production is increasing and "the gap between supply and demand is closing." More doses of the vaccine will be available in November and December.

For more information on the H1N1 swine flu, visit the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' website at www.flu.gov.