A 75-year-old man from the Topeka area has died from infection with the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment reported that the man had underlying health conditions that placed him at greater risk for severe complications of influenza.

This death brings the total number of confirmed deaths from the pandemic strain statewide to 19.

“I strongly encourage anyone who is recommended and able to be vaccinated against the pandemic H1N1 virus at this time to please do so,” said Dr. Jason Eberhart-Phillips, state health director. “In addition to protecting yourself, you will be safeguarding the health of others.”

Jeff Novorr, Lawrence Memorial Hospital vice president, said 36 people have been hospitalized at LMH with flu-like symptoms and pneumonia during the past few months. He said only two were confirmed cases of H1N1.