A 49-year-old Topeka area man has died from infection with the H1N1 flu virus.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment said the man had underlying health conditions that placed him at greater risk. The infection was confirmed on Nov. 23 and his death was reported to KDHE on Tuesday.

The death brings the number of confirmed Kansas deaths from the H1N1 virus to 24.

“Deaths due to the 2009 H1N1 flu virus keep reminding us of how important it is to reduce the health risks posed by this virus,” said Dr. Jason Eberhart-Phillips, state health officer. “That means avoiding spread and getting vaccinated.”