BOISE — H1N1 flu has contributed to the deaths of at least 11 Idahoans, state health officials said Wednesday.

The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported that additional deaths are under investigation to determine whether the virus is a factor.

Agency officials said reports of influenza-like illnesses are widespread throughout the state, which coincides with a national report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Most states are reporting widespread activity.

As of Tuesday, Idaho has been allocated a total of 165,200 doses of 2009 H1N1 vaccine. Initial shipments are being distributed directly to full-service hospitals, community health centers and local public health districts.

Here are the department's latest recommendations:

n Supplies of the 2009 H1N1 vaccine continue to improve. Parents are encouraged to take advantage of these clinics to protect children from illness.

n Children 6 months through 9 years of age need a second dose of H1N1 vaccine four weeks after their first dose.

Since Sept. 1, Health and Welfare reported, the average age of lab-confirmed H1N1 infections in Idaho is 18. Since Sept. 1st, a total of 302 hospitalized cases of influenza have been reported in Idaho.