Unalaska, AK – As the weather grows colder and people gather together for the holidays, medical providers and researchers recommend people protect themselves and their children from respiratory diseases. An analysis of data from 2005 - 2007 shows that Alaska Native infants have the highest death rate from lower respiratory tract infections than any other group. Other data shows they also have higher rates of hospitalizations due to respiratory infections. The rate is the highest in the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta, but Center for Disease Control Arctic Investigations Program researcher Rosalyn Singleton says the high rate is likely related to conditions found in many rural areas.

"In general in rural regions there's smaller houses, there are a lot of, as you know, weather issues that drive people to be inside, so anything that increases the number of people per square foot, and especially where there's a lot of children, will increase transmission of the viruses children get."

Infection rates are highest in areas without running water, as well. "We know that hand washing is very important. In fact, probably the issue with running water is more about having sinks to wash your hands. In fact in one recent study that we did, that was a case control study, it was having two or more sinks in the house that was the most important factor," Singleton explained.

Smoke in the house from either woodstoves or from smoking also increases infection rates. Breastfeeding, however, seems to protect infants from some respiratory problems.

Though most people in Unalaska have running water, respiratory illnesses are still a problem. IFHS Clinic executive director Sonia Handforth-Kome said that lung-related issues account for only five percent of medical visits, but they account for 14 percent of longer visits that require more intensive care.

"About 14 percent of people who come to us with shortness of breath or coughs or respiratory complaints we end up having to take care of for a longer period of time than we would other patients," Handforth-Kome said.

Injuries make up another 14 percent of longer care patients. This is similar to other critical care clinics around the country.

You can reduce your chances of getting a respiratory illness or passing one on by washing your hands frequently with warm water or by using hand sanitizer. Handforth-Kome also suggests blocking your coughs. "Literally put your arm across your face so you are coughing or sneezing into your elbow. That has been shown to be the most effective way to keep particulates from spreading. Then, wash your hands."

Singleton also encourages people not to take small infants under three months old to crowded public gatherings where diseases spread quickly and easily. Flu shots are available at the clinic for $15 and include immunizations against H1N1.