The Hood River County Health Department reported Thursday the first local death tied to complications from the H1N1 influenza.

Eduardo Chamonica-Gill, 35, of Odell, was pronounced dead on Saturday at Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital.

According to health officials, it was not known until yesterday’s lab test results were released that Chamonica-Gill’s death was from H1N1, also known as the swine flu.

The victim reportedly had an underlying chronic medical condition and had been considered at high-risk for flu complications. He had not been under a physician’s care for the illness prior to being hospitalized.

A funeral mass for Chamonica-Gill was held on Thursday at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Hood River. He will be buried in Charo, Michoacan, Mexico, at a later date.

Trish Elliott, nursing supervisor at the health department, said five H1N1 cases have resulted in hospitalization to date.

She said lab testing is only done by the public health authorities on people who have died or are in-patients in the hospital. Therefore, she said the actual number of people who might have been sick with the H1N1 flu is unknown.

“Most people who suffer from influenza will get better and recover on their own without requiring care from a doctor,” said a written statement provided by Elliott on Nov. 19.

“However, people who have severe illness or are at high risk for flu complications should contact their care provider who will determine whether treatment is necessary.”

Elliott said some of the health conditions that increase the risk of severe illness from influenza are:

• Pregnancy

• Long-term aspirin therapy in children and adolescents (ages 6 months to 18 years)

• Chronic lung disease or health, kidney, liver, blood and metabolic disorders

• Immuno-suppression, including that caused by medications or HIV

Any condition that affects respiratory function or handling of respiratory secretions or that increases the risk for aspiration. These conditions include spinal cord injuries, seizures or neuromuscular problems.

• Residence in a nursing home or other chronic-care facility

• Adults who become ill and experience any of the following warning signs are urged by health officials to seek emergency medical care:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath; pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen

• Sudden dizziness and/or confusion

• Severe or persistent vomiting

• Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and cough

In addition, children may exhibit these added warning signs:

• Bluish or gray skin color

• Not drinking enough fluids

• Not waking up or interacting

• So irritable that he/she does not want to be held

• Fever with a rash

Elliott said H1N1 influenza vaccine is being distributed as it become available. She said people should call their care provider to see if they are eligible for a vaccine.

First priority is being given to women who are pregnant, children ages 6 months to 18 years, health care and emergency services personnel and household member or caregivers to infants less than 6 months of age.