Wichita Woman Dies After Battle with H1N1

February 01, 2010

Carolina and Paul Enegren

Latest Update

(WICHITA, Kan.)

Wesley Medical Center confirms that 31-year-old Carolina Enegren has died from complications of H1N1.

Enegren, a mother of two young children, contracted H1N1 last October. She died Wednesday evening around 5:30 according to hospital officials.

Eyewitness News recently talked to her husband, Paul, who was trying to bring awareness to the H1N1.

----------------------------------

Original Story

By Michael Schwanke (WICHITA, Kan.)

H1N1 may not be in the news much anymore, but Paul Enegren thinks about it every day.

"She's been in the hospital since October 24th and ICU since the 27^th," says Paul talking about his wife, Carolina.

Before getting H1N1, 31-year-old Carolina was perfectly healthy. Paul now spends every day at the hospital, and nights with their two young sons.

Paul says the whole family got H1N1. He and the boys recovered quickly, but Carolina's body reacted differently. It overreacted causing severe lung damage.

Paul is asking for prayers, and although the prognosis isn't good, his hope isn't fading.

"I think a lot of people still aren't quite sure that it's something real. It's very real."

Doctors agree and say although there are few cases now, that could change.

"Although the 2009 H1N1 flu virus has been less active lately, it is still circulating and remains a threat," said Dr. Eberhart-Phillips.

"Flu activity normally peaks in February or March in Kansas, and it is possible that a similar pattern will occur this year with H1N1."

In addition to vaccination, individuals are encouraged to take the following steps to reduce its spread:

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer to get rid of most germs and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
If you become sick, stay home until at least 24 hours after fever or signs of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications, in order to avoid spreading illness to co-workers and friends.
Cough or sneeze into a tissue and properly dispose of used tissues. If you do not have a tissue, cover your cough or sneeze with your elbow and not your hands.
Stay healthy by eating a balanced diet, drinking plenty of water and getting adequate rest and exercise.

|

|

|