Asthma is NYC swine flu risk factor

NEW YORK, June 3 (UPI) -- The most common risk factor in New York City for those hospitalized for H1N1 flu has been asthma, health department officials said.

A preliminary analysis by the New York City health department of 152 hospitalized patients shows that at least 82 percent have belonged to one or more groups at higher risk of severe illness or complications from influenza.

Those at higher risk of flu complications include:

-- People who are over 65, under age 2, or pregnant.

-- People with chronic lung problems, such as asthma or emphysema.

-- People with chronic heart, kidney, liver or blood disorders.

-- People with neurological disorders that can cause breathing problems.

-- People with diabetes.

-- People whose immune systems are weakened due to illness or medication.

-- People under 18 years who are on long-term aspirin therapy.

However, the most common risk factor in New York City has been asthma -- an underlying risk factor among 41 percent of the New Yorkers hospitalized for H1N1 flu. Eighteen percent of those hospitalized were less than age 2, 13 percent of compromised immune system and 12 percent had heart disease, a statement said.

Health department officials recommend that people with asthma, or any of the other conditions listed here, to call a doctor right away if they develop flu-like illness.