Homeland Security boss warns US flu deaths are likely; virus might subside, then return

Official: Some in US deaths likely from flu

WASHINGTON — Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano is warning that more severe illnesses and some deaths are likely in the United States from the current swine flu outbreak.

At a daily briefing on the government’s response to the outbreak, Napolitano also said the virus could subside this summer and return in the fall when the normal flu season begins.

More than 60 cases of swine flu have been confirmed by health authorities in five states.

The outbreak reached the U.S. last week from Mexico.