HEBRON, Ky. -- A Northern Kentucky father wants to increase awareness after his son's sudden death due to complications associated with the H1N1 swine flu.
Leslie Kovach of Hebron says he is still waiting for the official cause of death of his son 26-year-old Casey Kovach.
The Northern Kentucky Independent District Health Department says Casey did not have any underlying conditions prior to his death.
He was treated at the emergency room of St. Elizabeth Hospital in Florence on Sunday, Oct. 25.
His symptoms included fever, vomiting and diarrhea. After his release, Leslie says those symptoms continued.
Three days later, his father says he was going to take Casey back to the hospital.
When he came home from work, he found Casey dead inside their home.
"I talked to him several times about going back in the hospital. I guess what I want to get out there is anyone in that age group, college years up to your 30s: get in with the first sign of flu symptoms. This thing took him in one week. One week exactly," said Leslie.
He hopes to hear from the medical examiner's office within the next several weeks.
He says he doesn't want to see anyone else endure what his son went through.
Health experts say patients should take notice of the warning signs that include trouble breathing, chest pains, fever, vomiting and inability to keep down liquids.
If the symptoms persist, patients should visit a doctor's office or emergency room.
