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Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

In twist, illness proves more fatal in older youths

In twist, illness proves more fatal in older youths

From Staff And Wire Reports

Swine flu continues to upend conventional findings on influenza.

The H1N1 virus appears to be more deadly for schoolage children than babies and toddlers, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Thursday. Of the more than 40 children killed by the flu, the vast majority were older than 5.

Seasonal influenza has historically been more dangerous to younger children and seniors. The virus is especially tough on children with underlying health issues such as epilepsy, cerebral palsy and other conditions.

The analysis also found that germs, working with swine flu in a one-two punch, were a big danger. A bacterial infection on top of the flu virus played a role in most of the deaths of otherwise healthy children.