A middle-aged woman who died this week from complications of influenza-like illness is the first death from H1N1 in Allen County.

Laboratory testing confirmed today the cause of death as related to H1N1 flu. Health officials will not be releasing any other information about the individual for confidentiality reasons.

This would be the 12th confirmed H1N1 flu-related death in Indiana since June.

“Our sympathy goes out to the family,” says Allen County Health Commissioner Dr. Deborah McMahan. “We know that in most cases, the flu is a mild illness. But this death is a reminder that H1N1 flu, just like seasonal influenza, can be a life-threatening disease.”

Anyone experiencing symptoms of influenza should stay home and contact a health care provider. People can also limit the spread of flu by covering their cough and washing their hands.

For more information, go to www.FightTheFlu.org or call 2-1-1.