Number of swine flu deaths in Louisiana hits 35

The number of swine flu deaths in Louisiana has hit 35, according to the state Department of Health and Hospitals.

The latest two deaths were reported in the Monroe and Lake Charles areas. While that may not seem close to Washington Parish, the swine flu has already spread to our area, and folks are dealing with it as best they can. If were not careful, a local resident could be the next H1N1 casualty.

But help has arrived.

According to the DHH, more than 464,000 doses of swine flu vaccine has been shipped to Louisiana, and are available at all parish health units — which include the units in Bogalusa and Franklinton. Some private clinics have also been provided with the vaccine.

A DHH representative says the state is targeting those most vulnerable to the flu such as pregnant women, young children or those with poor immune systems.

Those in the target group who want to get vaccinated can check DHH's Web site at http://www.FightTheFluLa.com to find out more information, or call local parish health units at 839-5646 (Franklinton) or 732-6615 (Bogalusa) to set up an appointment to get the vaccine.

There is no cost to get the vaccine at the parish health units, but insurance providers may be charged an administrative fee, a DHH official said.

We encourage Washington Parish residents to get the vaccine. It may just save your life.