A 60-year-old Topeka man has died from the H1N1 flu virus.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment said the death brought the total number of confirmed deaths from H1N1 statewide to 28.

The man’s infection was confirmed in the KDHE laboratory Feb. 4, and his death was reported to KDHE on Feb. 22. The man had underlying health conditions that placed him at greater risk for severe complications of influenza.

“Even though the 2009 H1N1 flu virus has decreased in activity, it continues to circulate and still remains a threat. We typically see flu activity peak in February or March in Kansas, and we are continuing to monitor the situation closely. So, if you haven’t received the H1N1 influenza vaccine, I encourage you to do so. “

— Dr. Jason Eberhart-Phillips, state health officer

The H1N1 vaccine is available for free at the Lawrence-Douglas County Health Department, 200 Maine St. For more information, call the department at 843-3060.